Accession Number1974/1.124
TitleMasque Antique
Artist(s)Eugène AtgetArtist NationalityFrench (culture or style)Object Creation Date1923 - 1924Medium & Supportgold-toned gelatin silver print on paperDimensions 10 in x 13 in (25.4 cm x 33.02 cm)
Credit LineMuseum PurchaseSubject matterIn this photograph of an antique mask hanging on a wall, the open-mouthed face of the figure fills the frame of the image, with strong shadows that emphasize every crevice and curl of hair. Atget framed the mask so closely there is little contextual information to identify or place the object, although the scratched panel on which it hangs and the nail visible on the lower margin suggest it might decorate an interior wall. Atget had an uncanny knack for making the details of every day life seem strange, as here by concentrating attention on the mask's dramatic but illegible expression.
Physical DescriptionAntique mask with carved curly hair and an open mouth.
Primary Object ClassificationPhotographCollection AreaPhotographyRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.
Keywords
documentary photography
face
interior decoration
masks
masks (costume)
modern and contemporary art
sculpture
sculpture (visual works)
wall pieces