Terracotta Mask “The Greek Comedy” H 16cm

Terracotta Mask “The Greek Comedy.” Handmade in Italy from Impruneta terracotta.

“The unbelievable is often worth more to the crowd than the true And is more believable. “

Menander

The eternal perfection of marble.

SUBJECT

In ancient Greek κωμῳδία(cōmōdìa), “The Comedy” offers, already in its very name, insights into cultural research that are an expression of the priceless heritage that the ancient Greece has delivered to history. Its etymology traces back to the union of two other Greek words, κῶμος(kômos) = festive procession” + ᾠδή (ōdé) = song. Literally, therefore, comedy means. “song of the festive procession”, alluding to the ancient propitiatory festivals typical of Dionysian cults.

“Comedy in its origins remains unknown to us, because it was not appreciated (…). It is not known who instituted the masks or prologues or the number of actors, and other such details.” Aristotle

As Aristotle himself admits, the origin of comedy “is obscure” and fascinating. Born to provoke laughter, it becomes over the centuries increasingly representative of the dichotomy of life, laying bare opposites. The theatrical arts of Ancient Greece have undoubtedly survived over the centuries inspiring essentially the entire Western world and beyond. Crossing the boundaries of literature, the artistic depiction of “Comedy” and ” Tragedy” have become a recurring subject in the history of art, reaching up to our own time.

THE MATERIAL.

Terracotta consists of a clay mixture that is fired at a temperature of 980-990° C. The typical reddish color is due to the conspicuous presence of iron substances. Resistant to frost, heat, thermal changes and brackish, over time it becomes almost a unique element with the surrounding natural environment. In fact, it is not uncommon for lichens and moss to settle on the surface, creating different textures and designs, which will make each object a unique, exclusive and personal piece.

These characteristics make terracotta ideal for outdoor decoration and furnishing. Its unmistakable touch, traditionally associated with a rustic and retro taste, is once again becoming the protagonist in innovative and designer projects. Prestigious names in contemporary architecture and art are rediscovering the value, even symbolic, of an ancient material that brings together water and earth, sustainability and the desire for innovation. Thanks to the rediscovery of all natural materials, which respect the environment and enhance it, modern design revisits traditional elements and gives new life to terracotta, in the architectural, landscape and artistic fields.