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WHAT MAKES A MASKERVILLE MASK?
Quality craftsmanship is our goal. This is evident in the construction of our masks, where robustness and a comfortable fit are as important as appearance.
A Maskerville mask begins with its a base, formed over a contoured mold of a human face. Contouring is the key to the fit; the mask must rest easily across the forehead, not on the nose. Lighter feather masks are built on stiffened felt; larger feather models and fabric masks are based on buckram, a sturdy, flexible millinery fabric. The back of the buckram - the side that rests against the face - is then lined with felt.
Next, eye-holes are cut to provide good peripheral vision, grosgrain ribbon ties are securely attached, and hanging loops inbuilt so the mask can be displayed. The prepared base is now ready to be covered.
Feathers are applied individually to the front of the base with a hot-glue gun, working from the outside in towards the eyes, and ending with the smallest and finest ones at the nose bridge. Each feather is layered - like roof-tiles - so that the quills are covered and only the colorful tips visible. Thus the mask feels smooth and soft like the plumage of a real bird.
The result of this is first, Maskerville masks last - they hold their shape for years. Second, they appear almost alive, transforming the wearer into a fantastic bird or cat creature. When displayed as art, they make a dynamic focus to a room or hallway. |
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