Article from the book: Ivanov Vyach . Sun. Selected Works on Semiotics and Cultural History. T. 4: Iconic systems of culture, art and science. - M. Languages of Slavic Cultures, 2007, c. 333-344. Scanned text. In this article, the mask as one of the important elements of culture is considered primarily from the point of view of the theory of signs - semiotics. The mask is an important element of the culture of all known societies and traditions. The role of the mask (or its functionally similar ways of changing the face with the help of cosmetics, tattoos, plastic surgery) varies depending on social, historical, geographical factors. But to some extent, the mask is always present. The ability to manufacture and use a mask or its analogues can be recognized as one of the universal human properties. When comparing the functions and shapes of masks in different, often distant from each other areas, similarities are revealed, which can be explained both typologically - by parallel paths of development, and by mutual influences starting in the early period. Therefore, the study of masks is of interest for the comparative analysis of different areas of world culture in their relationship.