Original three-dimensional mask design for Antony and Cleopatra, the 1966 opera by American composer Samuel Barber.  Composed of pieces of copper soldered together and stiffened metallic turquoise fabric, mounted on plywood-backed card, 38.5 x 22.5cm (15 x 8.75 inches), inset to linen mount, signed and dated below image on linen, framed, contemp. Wright Hepburn Gallery label on reverse, and Batoni frame label. Framed to an overall size of 22.5 x 15.5 inches (57 x 38 cm). 

Franco Zeffirelli was hired as stage director, and he prepared the libretto, based on Shakespeare's 'Antony and Cleopatra'. It was first performed in New York City on 16th September, 1966, at the opening of the new Metropolitan Opera House. The cast was enormous, and the stage design and costumes were elaborate, with no expense spared. However, the opera was not well received, and only a few performances were staged.