The word "mask" appeared in English in the 1530s, from Middle French masque "covering to hide or guard the … See more

The use of masks in rituals or ceremonies is a very ancient human practice across the world, although masks can also be worn for protection, in hunting, in sports, in feasts, or in wars – or simply used as ornamentation. Some cere… See more

Throughout the world, masks are used for their expressive power as a feature of masked performance – both ritually and in various theatre traditions. The ritual and theatrical definitions of mask use frequently overlap an… See more

Ritual masks occur throughout the world, and although they tend to share many characteristics, highly distinctive forms have developed. The function of the masks may be magical or religious; they may appear in ri… See more

Masks play a key part within world theatre traditions. They continue to be a vital force within contemporary theatre, and their usage takes a variety of forms and has often developed from, or continues to be part of old, … See more

Masks are also familiar as pieces of kit associated with practical functions, usually protective, including in sports and during plagues:
Some masks are used for medical purposes: … See more