My-Masks.com
Masks play a vast array of roles and functions throughout the world and tie into culture and society in many places. In Greece the first stage actors wore large masks with brass megaphones to convey expression, emotion and their voice throughout the huge auditoriums to people who were unable to see their natural faces. In Japan only male actors were permitted to be on stage which resulted in Masks being worn for female roles, then later spiritual and demon roles. In regal Venice and Italy the Masquerade was an elegant ball where the patrons wore eye masks or feather masks to allow them to eat, drink and talk throughout the party. In medieval Europe grotesque and horrifying leather masks were crafted and worn on stage and at common carnivals, commonly using human hair and animal parts. In ancient Aztec times extravagent masks were used during religious ceremonies and even at human sacrifices. In Africa masks were thought to hold the spirit of the character they represented and tribal totem masks were held as symbols of the tribes history and authority.
These are but a few small examples of the rich and varied history and use of masks throughout the world, often completely seperate of each other. To this day masks are an exceptional form of art, history and culture. We hope to share some of that history, art and culture with you on these pages.
