Mask
Western Zhou dynasty ( 1046–771 BC ), about 9th century BC
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
26.4 × 32.2 × 0.3 cm (10 1/2 × 12 7/8 × 3/32 in.)
Classification
bronze
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
86420
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
The function of this mask is not certain. It may have served as a bridle plaque for a horse, an ornament for a chariot, or, sewn onto leather, as chest armor for a soldier.
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...