Theatre was immensely popular in ancient Greece and Rome. The Roman theatrical tradition was developed from ancient Greek tragedies and comedies, from which they took direct inspiration, starting to stage plays in 240 BC. Theatre was usually performed during public festivals, sponsored by the Roman elite in order to gain political popularity, with Pompey the Great commissioning the building of a stone theatre in 55BC, the first permanent theatre built in Rome. Theatrical motifs were often used for decorative purposes in Roman art, featuring on lamps, wall paintings, appliqués, and so on. Masks were prevalent in the theatres of Ancient Greece and Rome, appearing in a variety of colours and designs. Stylistically, they featured over-exaggerated facial features and expressions, both artistically to reflect the drama of the Greco-Roman theatre and practically to highlight different characters and aid in projection of the voice. This particular depiction, with its large smile, was likely a representation of a comedic mask, which often used exaggerated and caricatured expressions.
Roman Glass Appliqué with Theatrical Mask
£ 295.00
A fine deep blue glass appliqué moulded into a theatrical mask. The mask protrudes outwards and displays a grotesque female mask with a large mouth, rounded nose and a peruke framing the face. The reverse features a piercing from which the appliqué was attached however it is now slightly chipped. The piece comes with a custom-made stand.
Measurements of the appliqué: 2.8cm height, 2.5cm width and weighs 15.7g.
Condition: Very fine condition, some pitting and encrustation to the surface. Slight wear to the facial features consistent with age.
In stock
| Weight | 35.3 g |
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| Dimensions | W 2.5 x H 7.9 cm |
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