essay

Moche masking traditions

art and archaeology of the moche : an ancient andean society of the peruvian north coastAustin • Published In 2008 • Pages: 67-80

By: Donnan, Christopher B..

Abstract
The author examines iconography and the few excavated examples of Moche masks to understand their manufacture and use. Both males and females could have masks. Those made to be worn by living persons have open eye and mouth holes. Fineline painting shows masks being worn by dancers. Masks for the dead are made of sheet metal, often with eyes that make the wearer appear alive. Masks have also been found on the exteriors of coffins, perhaps to animate them.
Subjects
Paraphernalia
Visual arts
Dance
Burial practices and funerals
Sacred objects and places
Priesthood
Organized ceremonial
tradition
Moche
HRAF PubDate
2015
Region
South America
Sub Region
Central Andes
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Archaeologist
Document Rating
4: Excellent Secondary Data
Analyst
Sarah Berry; 2013
Field Date
not specified
Coverage Date
2000-1200 BP (AD 1-800)
Coverage Place
Piura, Lambayeque, La Libertad and Ancash regions (north coast), Peru
Notes
Christopher B. Donnan
Includes bibliographical references (p. 80)
LCCN
2008027539
LCSH
Moche (Peru)--Antiquities