The World of Masks

Masks, representing either human or animal faces, are among the oldest cultural objects, dating back to Paleolithic times. However varied their appearance, their essential characteristics has been to hide the identity of the wearer and to establish a new personality. The World of Masks begins with a brief but useful introduction, drawing on archeological evidence and material from prehistory. The main part of the book is a wide-ranging survey, continent by continent, of the significance of masks in various societies around the world during the past 200 years. The survey considers the tradition of masking and its cultural implication, the function of masks within the individual social or tribal groups, and also discusses their aesthetic qualities, how they are made and the various ways in which they are worn.The World of Masks offers a unique source of clear and concise reference, and will appeal both to mask collectors and to enthusiasts for tribal art. The text is enhanced by over 60 superb full-colour photographs illustrating the principal types of masks, and also a remarkable collection of black and white photographs and line drawings.Dr. Erich Herold worked for almost 25 years in the Naprstek Museum of Asian, African and American Cultures in Prague, and during the latter part of his career was in charge of the collections of African and Indonesian art in the Museum. He was the author of 'African Art' (1990).