Masks and masquerade in the Early Neolithic: a view from Upper Mesopotamia

Archaeological evidence from Upper Mesopotamia's Early Neolithic period reveals that masks and masquerade played a significant role in rituals tied to mythological narratives, particularly those related to death. These rituals were conducted at specialized sites with rich iconography, such as Göbekli Tepe, Jerf el Ahmar, and Nevalı Çori. The study highlights the time-intensive craftsmanship involved in creating both miniature and life-sized mask representations, suggesting their importance in these ceremonies. By analyzing artifacts from these sites, researchers argue that masking was a central element in reenacting sacred narratives, underscoring its cultural and symbolic significance during this pivotal period of human history.

Dietrich, O., Notroff, J., & Dietrich, L. (2018). Masks and masquerade in the Early Neolithic: a view from Upper Mesopotamia. Time and Mind, 11(1), 3–21. https://doi.org/10.1080/1751696x.2018.1433354