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Doe And Hope
Tel07729 213013Please quote Antiques Atlas.
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Non UK callers :
+44 7729 213013
19thC Papier-Mâché Hero Theatrical Mask
The neutral ebony papier-mâché mask with a turned and tapered gilt painted wooden handle stick, with later hanging block and loop.
The reverse reveals the word ‘Hero’ written in pencil, a couple of old repairs and a wooden stabilising block which allows the mask to be hung from a string, To the front of the mask the tip of the nose shows some wear but there are no cracks or splits. There is some weakness to where the handle joins the mask but overall the condition is essentially good.
Throughout the world masks are used for their expressive power as a feature of masked performance - both ritually and in various theatre traditions. A familiar and vivid element in many folk and traditional pageants, ceremonies, rituals and festivals, masks are often of an ancient origin. Masks are used almost universally and maintain their power and mystery both for their wearers and their audience.
The neutral mask, as we see here, is a mask of calm, without overt expression, and so essentially represents one that has no past and no thought of the future only existing in the here and now. This kind of mask is a wonderful tool used to help an actor understand and develop a heightened sense of discovery, awareness of space, presence and a profound awareness of self. This mask is marked ‘Hero’ so, Shakespeare’s Much Ado aside, we can presume it was used at one time to portray the hero.
Now hanging as a decorative delectation, this mask reminds us of the enduring power of pretence and the everlasting appeal of the theatre.
SellerDoe And Hope
View all stock from
Doe And Hope
Private dealer, By appointment only
The Onion Barn, Shoe Cottage,
15 High Street, Blunham,
Bedfordshire, MK44 3NL.
MK44 3NL
Tel : 07729 213013
Non UK callers : +44 7729 213013
Get directions to Doe And Hope
The reverse reveals the word ‘Hero’ written in pencil, a couple of old repairs and a wooden stabilising block which allows the mask to be hung from a string, To the front of the mask the tip of the nose shows some wear but there are no cracks or splits. There is some weakness to where the handle joins the mask but overall the condition is essentially good.
Throughout the world masks are used for their expressive power as a feature of masked performance - both ritually and in various theatre traditions. A familiar and vivid element in many folk and traditional pageants, ceremonies, rituals and festivals, masks are often of an ancient origin. Masks are used almost universally and maintain their power and mystery both for their wearers and their audience.
The neutral mask, as we see here, is a mask of calm, without overt expression, and so essentially represents one that has no past and no thought of the future only existing in the here and now. This kind of mask is a wonderful tool used to help an actor understand and develop a heightened sense of discovery, awareness of space, presence and a profound awareness of self. This mask is marked ‘Hero’ so, Shakespeare’s Much Ado aside, we can presume it was used at one time to portray the hero.
Now hanging as a decorative delectation, this mask reminds us of the enduring power of pretence and the everlasting appeal of the theatre.
Price The price has been listed in British Pounds.
Conversion rates as of 16/JUN/2025. Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer. Phone or visit the website to buy, Free UK shipping.
DimensionsLength 17.5 inches (the whole)
Mask 8 inches high x 5 inches wide
Date c.1820
Early 19th Century Antiques Material Papier Mache
Origin British
Condition Good.
Item code as155a426
Status Sold
£220.00 
$299.11 
€258.06 
$
€
Conversion rates as of 16/JUN/2025. Euro & Dollar prices will vary and should only be used as a guide.
Always confirm final price with dealer. Phone or visit the website to buy, Free UK shipping.
View all stock from
Doe And Hope
Private dealer, By appointment onlyThe Onion Barn, Shoe Cottage,
15 High Street, Blunham,
Bedfordshire, MK44 3NL.
MK44 3NL
Tel : 07729 213013
Non UK callers : +44 7729 213013
Get directions to Doe And Hope
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