Disease mask

myminifactory

Colour information is available for this work - please get in touch for access to this file! Disease masks used in Singhalese healing rituals were believed to exorcise demons responsible for illnesses from the sufferers. These complex night-time ceremonies, accompanied by beating drums and burning resin, involved the suffering patient being confronted with the incarnation of the malady in the form of the masked shaman, or 'edura'. A label on this mask indicates it might have been used to treat diarrhoea. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan The World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks and landmarks from across the globe for public access. We invite you to join this open source community effort - if you have interesting items around you, email stw@myminifactory.com to find out how you can contribute.