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Metadata
Object Name |
Theatrical Mask of Comedy |
Object ID# |
MC 0554 |
Date |
5th century BC |
Description |
Comedy, Like tragedy, was a Greek invention, originating in the addition of dialogue to choral song. Theatrical masks of comedy and tragedy known as masks of Epidaurus because they became famous during the festivals in the said town. The players wore these masks when performing plays in the theatres of Dionyssos, Herode Atticus, Epidaurus Delphi. Comedy, like Tragedy, was a Greek invention, originating in the addition of dialogue to choral song. In the hands of Aristophanes it became a brilliant mixture of poetry, pantomime, fantasy and wit, with a sharp satirical edge from which not even the most prominent citizens were exempt. As well as masks the actors often wore eccentric costumes. As time went on the fantasy and exuberance were curtailed, the chorus played a less prominent part and complicated intrigue with type-characters took the place of political satire. Fewer Greek comedies have survived than tragedies, though a complete specimen of the New Comedy, by Menander, recently came to light in a papyrus from Egypt. |
Place of Origin |
Epidaurus Greece |
Medium |
Mask |
Material |
Clay |
Location of Original |
National Archaeological Museum Athens Greece |
Dimensions Details |
Height: 215 mm Width: 192 mm Depth: 80 mm |