Masks of Tragedy and Comedy

Picturesque, beautifully handmade sculpture in terracotta, painted with engobes, and modeled following ancient techniques. It is freely inspired by an ancient mosaic preserved in Rome, Musei Capitolini, which probably dates back to the second century A.D. The mosaic depicts two of the masks employed in the Greek theater, one of a young, sad woman (tragedy) and one of a laughing, ridiculous man (comedy). 

Going to the theatre, for the Greeks and Romans, was not just a pleasure. As long as the events, tragic or comic, were taking place on the stage, the audience was so involved with the plot and empathized so much with the characters that they could feel the presence of a god inside themselves. That god was the one of the ecstasy, a state achieved through sexual pleasure, drinking and dramas: Dionysus son of Zeus, most adored and loved because he was believed to be able to give life after death. To attend a series of theatre performances on his honor was thought many sacrifices worth. 

Given its firing at about 1000° C, the sculpture can be placed outside and won't be damaged by sun, cold or ice.