This is a stone mask from the pre-ceramic neolithic period believed to be the oldest mask in the world that dates back to 7000 BCE and is found at Musée de la Bible et de la Terre Sainte in France.
On account of Philippine culture the Lenten moriones of Marinduque is considered the oldest practice that utilized masks as part of a religious ritual dating back to the late 1800s. When worn, these masks maintain their power and mystery for he or she who wears it and for the audience who are kept bewildered, frightened or amused. This photo comes closest to the original mask worn by the morions and originates in Mogpog.
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