Verfasst: 13.03.2007 23:58
Yes, I've seen this. I have also- on advice- written to Mrs. Rose. No answer yet. She is the expert on NW-European terracotta masks.
One thing, though, is that it is clear that she translates the Latin wrong: Martialis only says "mask of a red Batavian"... any reference to hair (red or blonde) is only by conjecture! The Batavians of 69 AD indeed painted their hair red for battle, but it might just as well relate to a redpainted (ie, in the face) mask.
Which is what the British Museum example might in fact be.
Kelvin Wilson
One thing, though, is that it is clear that she translates the Latin wrong: Martialis only says "mask of a red Batavian"... any reference to hair (red or blonde) is only by conjecture! The Batavians of 69 AD indeed painted their hair red for battle, but it might just as well relate to a redpainted (ie, in the face) mask.
Which is what the British Museum example might in fact be.
Kelvin Wilson