comic masks
Dramatic expression disguises
Comic masks are theatrical masks depicting exaggerated, often grotesque expressions—grinning mouths, raised eyebrows, laughing faces.
Originating in ancient Greek theater, they represented comedy as opposed to the weeping tragic mask.
The two masks together—one laughing, one crying—form the iconic symbol of drama and the performing arts, appearing on theater programs, buildings, and awards.
- tragedyDisastrous or sorrowful event
- theaterVenue for live drama
- Greek theaterAncient outdoor performance venue
- dramaTheatrical art or turmoil
- dramatic artsPerforming on stage
Greek · ancient Greece · stage · theatrical tradition · farce · disguise · performance · actor · expression · theatrical · grinning · weeping · laughing · painted smile · persona · masquerade · happy face · sad face
- masksN95, kachina, ancestor spirits, respirator, false face
- Greek comedyAristophanes, The Birds, Greek theatre, Greek drama, Dionysian