Masks: Faces of Culture (Hardcover)

~ (Author), Cara McCarthy (Author), John Emigh (Author), Lesley K. Ferris (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Companion to an exhibition currently at the Saint Louis Art Museum, this volume is exactly what it claims to be: a survey of the phenomenon of masks. On the surface, this may seem to be a simple undertaking, but it is notAmask-making is a deeply human endeavor fraught with meanings. Starting with prehistory and extending to the present age, this book thoroughly examines the many reasons for making and wearing masks. Rites of passage, warfare, and drama are all addressed, from the earliest known examples in Egypt, Australia, and Mesoamerica to football helmets and Star Wars characters in the present day. Six fascinating essays, including contributions by John Emigh (theater, Brown Univ.) and Lesley Ferris (theater, Ohio State Univ.), are interconnected by stunning illustrations. This is definitely the book for anyone wishing to sample the subject. Highly recommended.ASusan M. Olcott, Columbus, OH
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Description

From Palaeothic times to the present, people have used masks to add power and mystery to religious rituals, warfare and entertainment. This companion volume to the 1999-2000 exhibtion at The Saint Louis Museum of Art provides a cultural history of these artefacts.

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 344 pages
• Publisher: Harry N. Abrams (October 1, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0810943794
• ISBN-13: 978-0810943797
• Product Dimensions: 11.8 x 9.5 x 1.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #600,244 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Nice pics, nonetheless something is missing..., September 1, 2008

By	Rick von Baden Baden - See all my reviews

This book has very interesting pictures, but it's not complete. There is something missing. This is because it shows some pictures, but doesn't cover all types of masks and bring a very limited quantity of images and information. Pics are nice, but not enough.

6 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Very Satisfied, September 27, 2005

By	Katherine Carrillo - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Great! It was a gift for someone and they just loved it. Was shipped promptly! Everything turned out great. Book is awesome and the detail is amazing! Check it out! Just what I was looking for