International Order of Odd Fellows, USA

14 inches, painted papier mache, fake hair

The Odd Fellows Lodge is famous for using masquerade in their ceremonies. The costumes are quite colorful and the masks are usually made of painted screen with attached hair and beard. One of their masks is different. It represents the biblical character Goliath and is constructed of papier mache instead of wire mesh. It is used in the first-degree initiation ceremony and must be removed from the body after David slew Goliath off stage. Why this Goliath has one eye closed, I don’t know. Definitely an older piece that has been used a lot. There is some damage and paint loss, as you can see, but it is structurally strong. Probably manufactured by DeMoulin Bros & Co of Greenville, Illinois in the early 20th century.

$175