An exceptional Ancient Egyptian mummy face mask, dating to approximately the 1st–mid 2nd century A.D.
The mask constructed of cartonnage (ancient Egyptian plaster) and decorated throughout with black and green paint. Taking the form of the deceased woman, her arms crossed below her breasts, right hand clenched tightly and pierced, dark black hair framing the face and falling just above her chest, held tight by a vivid green seshed headband. Her rounded chin and pursed mouth sit below her short, straight nose, the eyes with cosmetic lines, the dark pupils returning the viewers gaze, highlighted by bushy black eyebrows.
The mask is decorated with three scenes, taken from the Book of the Dead, which depict the fascinating funerary beliefs of the ancient Egyptians, and show the deceased owner successfully negotiating the trials of the afterlife.
i) Along the right side Osiris is shown holding crook, facing Isis and another female deity with Horus behind, holding out an offering.
ii) Running along the left side of the head, Horus is shown far right, wearing the double crown of Egypt, facing Isis, her right arm raised. Behind, Imentet, holding scepter and wearing mistress of the west headdress, clutches the arm of the deceased and welcomes them into the afterlife.
iii) On top of the wig lies a depiction of the Ba, or soul of the deceased. Shown here with human head, bird-body and holding feathers of Maat in hands and talons. An eternity symbol or shen crowns his head.
Height: approximately 21 1/2 inches as mounted.
Condition: Good and stable. Minor restorations, particularly to the headband and wig.
Provenance:
By repute: The Moskowitz Gallery, purchased 1974.
Ex American Masters gallery, Los Angeles, with old label to the underside.
This piece is accompanied by a custom made stand and protective perspex cover.
