A Decorative 19thC Plaster Gilt Painted Architectural Lion Mask

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Origin: English
Period: Late Nineteenth Century
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1880
Height: 6.75 inches
Width: 5 inches
Depth: 2 inches (all at maximum)

The gilt painted plaster mask in the form of a roaring lion with deep rouge painted mouth agape and pierced holes for mounting survives from the late nineteenth century.

The condition of the mask is good with no losses or chips aside from some wear to the nose and some loss to the edge of one of the ears.

Throughout the world masks are used for their expressive power as a feature of masked performance - both ritually and in various theatre traditions. A familiar and vivid element in many folk and traditional pageants, ceremonies, rituals and festivals, masks are often of an ancient origin and have also featured architecturally and on furniture for centuries. This example is not for the face but was probably used to adorn an architectural element such as a door enclave or a fireplace.

A super little decorative curio for those with a theatrical roar.   

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