Inca Mask Lesson

Worn throughout history by many different cultures

Worn over face to hide or reveal personalities or moods

Can feature human or animal characteristics

Usually represent imaginary figures, ancestors, or supernatural beings

Masks

Theatre or plays- Ancient Greece, Renaissance

Burial customs/ funeral ceremonies- Egyptians

Festivals- Mardi Gras, Halloween

Rituals- Initiation to manhood; fertility

Uses for Masks

Existed in South America from 1438-1572Encompasses modern day Peru and

surrounding countries

Inca Empire

One of the biggest empires in the world

Complex civilization and strict social structure

Very intelligent people- developed medicines, created cities, understood mathematics, agriculture, architecture, and military strategies

Inca Culture

The people were extremely religious and made amazing masks to wear during religious ceremonies

Masks were made of gold, silver, copper, or mixed metal

Masks featured facial shapes, various embellishments, rich colors, with lines and shapes decorating the forms

Inca Masks

Inca Masks

Inca Masks

Inca Masks