LOT 0590

Greek Terracotta Head of an Actor Vase

CIRCA 4TH CENTURY B.C.

3 in. (69.3 grams, 75 mm).

An expressive polychrome vase formed as the head of an actor wearing rosette earrings, open mouth and applied pupils, short neck with everted rim above and a small strap handle to the rear. [No Reserve]

Ex Louis-Gabriel Bellon, France, (1819-1899).
with Galerie Rhéa, Zurich, Switzerland.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12667-236389.

Cf. similar grotesque head of an actor in the Museum of fine Art Budapest, inv.no.T396.

In Greek theatre, actors wore masks made from materials like linen and leather, which amplified expressions and helped actors take on multiple roles within a single play. Aristotle, in his Poetics, highlighted the importance of masks in conveying emotion and character, especially in large outdoor theatres. This terracotta, representing the satirical mask of a woman, with its lively and expressive features, would have brought both humour and recognisable character traits to the stage, engaging audiences with the playful spirit of Greek comedy.