a man in a top hat is holding a skull.

An iron mask with a grotesque nose attachment, sculpted and frowning eyebrows, worn by a European executioner. 1501-1700. It is said that the executioner wore this mask before delivering the last blow with an axe or sword. It looks terrifying and intentionally gloomy and menacing to further frighten the prisoner. The executioners often wore masks to hide their identity and avoid retribution. They were often booed and ridiculed, especially if the person to be executed was a popular or sympathetic figure.