This is such a very special mask. He's what I refer to as a sabbatical mask; something that I make in order to learn how to make it, something that will be the basis of a whole body of work. These masks take a LOT longer than my other masks, but I only charge for the amount of time that it will take to make the -next- one like it, so the learning time is on me. Even so; this is a very complex mask, and while several of the things I learned while making him will be used in future masks, there will probably never be one that uses -all- of the things I learned in order to complete him. He's a piece of Vagabond history, and he's also a spectacular object (and quite comfy).
Deer -is- heavier than many of our masks. The weight balances well on top of the head, and so he is still quite comfortable for all night wear, but unlike our smaller masks, you will probably not forget you are wearing him. Also he is terrible for eating sandwiches, but fine for bite-sized finger foods or anything you'd eat with a knife and fork.
The wonder of a copper mask is in the strength and give of the material. Because it is so strong, the mask can be very thin- this makes it both very light, and makes it possible to fit as a second skin. These won't block your peripheral vision the way a leather. paper maiche, or plastic mask would. They can be very comfortably worn all day and night- no worries about sweat or rain causing them to soften and lose their shape. Rinse it with clean water at the end of the night before putting it away. They can stand up to anything you throw at them. As for packing? Throw it in your bag. If you're checking the bag, maybe stuff a balled up pair of socks where your forehead would go. Easy.
Not planning to wear your mask? He or she won't mind. They can hang flat against a wall, or sit on a shelf.
