Egypt, Late Dynastic Period, 26th to 31st Dynasty, ca. 664 to 332 BCE. A large and finely-carved wooden sarcophagus mask detailed with scattered areas of faint paint atop chalky white gesso. The mask is defined by its prominent nose, a wide headdress across the brow, plateaued eyes, and a full mouth, with the flat verso meant to protect the body and face of the deceased. Areas of the original gesso are still visible around the eyes and headdress with traces of black pigment hinting at how the mask would have appeared in the past. Residual dowel holes are scattered across the obverse and reverse sides with fragments of the original dowels in some. Though rough and exposed, this wooden mask is a beautiful example of ancient Egyptian funerary practices. Size: 8.375" W x 10" H (21.3 cm x 25.4 cm).
Mummy masks were principally used to protect the face of the deceased, but they could also act as a substitute for the mummified head in the case of loss or damage. In addition, the ancient Egyptians believed that the "ba" (often incorrectly translated as "spirit") could leave the tomb and travel freely in the world of the living. To make sure that upon returning it would recognize the mummy, whose face was hidden by layers of bandage, the mask functioned as a portrait. Nevertheless, most masks had idealized features and were rarely particularized portraits.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private German collection, acquired in the early 2000s
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#141372
Condition
Light wear and abrasions commensurate with age, fading to original pigmentation, with several stable fissures, and rough, exposed surface. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.