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Archaeologists excavating the ancient Greek city of Phanagoria on Russia’s Taman Peninsula have uncovered the first concrete evidence of classical theater in the Black Sea colony. The discovery—a 2,200-year-old terracotta satyr mask fragment—represents a milestone in understanding the cultural and religious life of one of the largest ancient Greek settlements in the region.
The find was made by the Phanagoria Archaeological Expedition, supported by the Oleg Deripaska “Volnoe Delo” Foundation. Measuring nearly 30 centimeters (12”) in length, the mask fragment preserves the left side of the satyr’s face, complete with exaggerated cheekbones, a large ear, and thick beard reports Arkeonews. The painted details are still visible: a blue-outlined eye and reddish beard and mustache, characteristic features of masks used in New Comedy performances during the 2nd century BC.
According to researchers, the size, stylistic details, and perforations for straps confirm that this was a genuine theatrical prop rather than a miniature votive mask.