Mask of Shame – “Schandmaske,” Central Europe (Germany?), ca. 1550-1700
6660,00 zł
A rare and authentic example of the so-called mask of shame ( Schandmaske), forged from a single piece of iron. It resembles the face shield used in German-type Salada helmets with a movable shield. Like the shields in Salada helmets, it was a movable piece, fixed on two rivets, retained at temple level. Unlike helmet shields, the mask was made of thin sheet metal, with narrow eye openings that significantly limited the field of vision. The features that distinguish it from helmet shields are also the grotesquely depicted nose and the rather careless manner in which it was made. These features were related to its functionality – the mask was intended to attract attention and arouse pejorative associations with the person who wore it, rather than serve as protection during battle.
A rare and authentic example of the so-called mask of shame ( Schandmaske), forged from a single piece of iron. It resembles the face shield used in German-type Salada helmets with a movable shield. Like the shields in Salada helmets, it was a movable piece, fixed on two rivets, retained at temple level. Unlike helmet shields, the mask was made of thin sheet metal, with narrow eye openings that significantly limited the field of vision. The features that distinguish it from helmet shields are also the grotesquely depicted nose and the rather careless manner in which it was made. These features were related to its functionality – the mask was intended to attract attention and arouse pejorative associations with the person who wore it, rather than serve as protection during battle.
| Weight | 0,451 kg |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 17,5 × 19,5 × 17 cm |
| Type |
Mask of Shame (German: Schandmaske) |
| Form |
Face cover with schematic features and narrow crevices at the level of eyes, nose and mouth, and round cheek openings |
| Style |
Grotesque functionalism, morality play in visual form |
| State of preservation |
Good museum condition, sheet metal crack under and over the nose, small dent and minor perforation on the forehead, but form complete, rivets preserved, corrosion stabilized, patina |
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