Comic slave mask
Item
Title
Comic slave mask
Rights
Image Copyright: University of Canterbury
Type
comic masks (theatrical masks, masks (costume), ... Furnishings and Equipment (hierarchy name))
Creator
Ministry of Culture Archaeological Receipts Fund - Casting and Copying Workshop
Date
1988-1989, replica of Hellenistic original
Description
This plaster cast is a replica of an ancient sculpture in the form of a male comic mask used in Greek theatre. The replica is made from plaster and has been brush painted. The face has prominent features highlighted by its bright off-white wash. The mask features accentuated furrowed brows and brow bone, uniform eye holes, a large, wrinkled nose and a wide cut out smile with large textured lips. The hair appears smoothed back and straight or untextured. The replica has leather fastenings on the reverse. The cast also features replicated cracks and fractures based on the original piece.
The original sculpture on which this mask is based was found in the ancient agora of Athens. The original sculptural mask may have been an architectural decoration to commemorate the performances that took place in the agora.
The original sculpture on which this mask is based was found in the ancient agora of Athens. The original sculptural mask may have been an architectural decoration to commemorate the performances that took place in the agora.
Format
Plaster
Extent
Height 265mm (top of head to bottom chin)
Width 197mm (edge of hair left side to edge of hair right side)
Diameter 92 mm (edge of reverse to tip of forehead)
Weight 1.38 kg
Width 197mm (edge of hair left side to edge of hair right side)
Diameter 92 mm (edge of reverse to tip of forehead)
Weight 1.38 kg
Rights Holder
University of Canterbury
Owner
University of Canterbury
Collection
James Logie Memorial Collection - Cast Collection
