About this sheet
Original Antique Print of Ancient Greek and Roman Theatre Masks by Bertuch, 1802
Original antique hand-colored copper engraving depicting ten theatrical masks from classical antiquity, published in Friedrich Justin Bertuch’s celebrated “Bilderbuch für Kinder” in Weimar in 1802.
The plate is titled “Alterthümer XII / Antiquités XII” and illustrates a fascinating selection of masks associated with ancient Greek and Roman theatrical traditions.
Bertuch explains in the accompanying text that theatrical masks were used for performances in the large open-air theatres of antiquity. Unlike a simple face mask, they covered the entire head and created a recognizable theatrical character. Their exaggerated facial expressions and large open mouths were intended to make the character clearly visible and, according to contemporary understanding, help project the actor’s voice across the theatre.
The ten examples represent three principal categories identified by Bertuch: tragic masks, comic masks and Bacchic masks associated with satirical and pastoral performances. He specifically identifies Figs. 1, 2, 3 and 8 as tragic masks; Figs. 7 and 10 as comic masks; and Figs. 4, 5, 6 and 9 as Bacchic masks.
The masks are particularly decorative, with dramatically different expressions, hairstyles, wreaths and headdresses, enhanced with original hand coloring in soft pink, green, blue, ochre and brown.
The engraving bears the signature “Jacob H. Schmuzer” at lower right.
Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822) was a German publisher, writer and patron of the arts. His monumental “Bilderbuch für Kinder” (Picture Book for Children) was one of the great illustrated educational encyclopedias of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, encompassing natural history, geography, science, technology, mythology, antiquity and costumes.
Creator:
Friedrich Justin Bertuch (1747–1822)
Engraver:
Jacob H. Schmuzer
Source:
Bilderbuch für Kinder
Plate:
Alterthümer XII / Antiquités XII – Masken der Alten
Place of Publication:
Weimar, Germany
Date of Manufacture:
1802
Period:
Early 19th Century
Style:
Neoclassical – In the Period of
Medium:
Original hand-colored copper engraving on paper
Condition:
Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Light age-related toning and occasional minor spotting. Some marginal wear and irregularity, particularly along the right edge. Original hand coloring remains attractive. Please refer to the photographs for further details of condition.
Please note:
This is an original antique print from 1802, not a modern reproduction. The print is sold unframed. Framed images or interior views, if shown, are for presentation and inspiration only.
Keywords:
ancient theatre masks, Greek theatre masks, Roman theatre masks, antique mask print, tragedy and comedy masks, theatrical masks, classical theatre, ancient Greek theatre, Roman theatre, Bacchic masks, classical antiquity, Grand Tour print, Bertuch print, Friedrich Justin Bertuch, Jacob Schmuzer, hand colored engraving, Neoclassical print, 1802 engraving
