Three blackface masks

http://dp.la/api/items/afd114d10eb7b10de4df32be239491bd

Three blackface masks

Unidentified

20th-mid 20th century

2007.7.229.1

A triangular blackface mask constructed from stretch, black knit cloth. The mask are predominantly black with white stitching around the eye holes and red, appliquéd cloth at the mouth. The mouth is large and exaggerated.

2007.7.229.2

2007.7.229.3

Objects depicting racist and/or stereotypical imagery or language may be offensive and disturbing, but the NMAAHC aims to include them in the Collection to present and preserve the historical context in which they were created and used. Objects of this type provide an important historical record from which to study and evaluate racism.

Costume

Clothing and dress

Caricature and cartoons

Stereotypes

African Americans

African American

Smithsonian Institution

http://collections.si.edu/search/results.htm?q=record_ID=nmaahc_2007.7.229.1-.3&repo=DPLA

Costume

Clothing and dress

Caricature and cartoons

Stereotypes

African Americans

African American