This fragment of a terracotta mask, found in the ruins of the Greek city of Phanagoria, still displays stunning details dating back to the 2nd century BCE, including a hole through which the strap that held the mask in place passed, as well as blue paint around the eyes and red paint on the beard.
Oleg Deripaska's Volnoe Delo Foundation. A fragment of a satyr mask recently discovered by archaeologists in Phanagoria.
This classic theater mask, approximately 12 inches long, depicts a satyr, an ancient Greek mythological creature with a human body and the horns, tail, and hooves of a goat. According to Oleg Deripaska's Volnoe Delo Foundation, the mask's size, combined with the large cutouts for the eyes and mouth, indicate it was a genuine theatrical prop.
Like many other Greek theatrical masks, the artifact features exaggerated facial features, including cheekbones, a thick beard, and a large ear. It also shows traces of some painted details, including a blue outline around the eye and red facial hair.
“The satyr is easily recognizable on the fragment of a terracotta mask by his exaggerated facial features, tousled hair, and horseshoe-shaped mustache,” says a statement from Oleg Deripaska's Volnoe Delo Foundation. “This is precisely how the goat-legged companions of Dionysus were depicted in performances, glorifying his exploits and accompanying him in processions.”
Satyrs were indeed often associated with the Greek god Dionysus, the god of wine, merriment, and theater. Masks like this one were used by actors to change roles, with each mask intended to reflect the character's underlying emotional state or role in the story. For example, a satyr's red beard was meant to signal to the audience his fiery temper.
In addition to their use in ancient theater, masks played an important role in the cult of Dionysus. This cult was particularly popular in Phanagoria, especially during the reign of Mithridates VI Eupator, who considered this god his patron.
The first physical evidence of the existence of an ancient Greek theatre in Phanagoria
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