Maiden Mask
early 20th century
A glowing purity of form and color is evident in this maiden mask. Most striking is the coating of white chalk, which becomes a stark background for crisply carved features. Her ideal beauty is exemplified by a long, straight nose, perfectly formed teeth, and demure eyes. In performances, the mask would be worn by a man who was tall and lithe, upright in posture, and stately. The man emulating a maiden would wear tight fitting costumes to walk and dance with exaggerated dignity, although occasional eruptions would show off athletic and fast paced choreography. This is an extremely accomplished example of the perfection of feminine appearance.
Wood, pigments, chalk, cloth
15 x 10 x 10 in. (38.1 x 25.4 x 25.4 cm)
Gift of Mark Groudine and Cynthia Putnam
2014.30.4
Provenance: Collection of James Byrnes (1917-2011; former Director of the New Orleans Museum of Art in the 1960s, Director of the Newport Harbor Art Museum from 1972-1975, then named Emeritus Director of the New Orleans Museum in 1989); Collection of Eric Farrow, San Rafael, CA; acquired from Mr. Farrow by Mark Groudine and Cynthia Putnam, Seattle
Photo: Elizabeth Mann
