In the last two posts we looked at arty masks or at the theme of masks interpreted by artists, so let's refocus on the power of masks in fashion with this picture by Richard Avedon showing model Penelope Tree wearing a metallic mask sculpted by Gustin for Ungaro. The photograph, taken in 1968, was accompanied by a photoshoot in which Penelope Tree donned two silver masks. This one was particularly striking as it webbed around the face, highlighting the eyes in a metal tattoo-like frame.
Explaining his fascination with these pieces, Ungaro stated about masks, "When you see people for the first time you tend to label them without knowing what they really are. These masks represent the 'inner face' of a person - once you know her, know what is going on in her mind. It's the whole problem of human communication – the masks force people to understand that one must learn really to look, they incite the search for what is beyond the first impression."
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