Wood Sarcophagus Relief Mask, Egypt, circa 664-30 BCE (1986)

Description

Egyptian sarcophagus masks such as this one were essential components of elite burials during Egypt’s Late Period through the Ptolemaic era. While each mask was individually crafted, they followed strict visual codes meant to convey timelessness, protection, and spiritual continuity. Made in relief, they were usually covered with gesso (a mix or plaster and a binding substance) and often painted using white and black paint, sometimes red and less often other colors.

Most masks including this one commonly were integrated in the design of the large sarcophagus lid but were rarely the deceased’s portrait. Although generalized or idealized additions, they were essential so that the soul of the departed could recognize their body to reside in for their journey in the afterlife.

Painted wooden sarcophagus masks like this adorned the face of a mummified individual, serving both a protective and spiritual function in the burial rites of ancient Egypt. Crafted with stylized features—striking almond shape black outlined eyes with large round black pupils on a white ground above prominent eyebrows, delicately arched brows, and a serene expression—it was designed to preserve the identity of the deceased and provide a recognizable form for the soul (ka) to reunite with in the afterlife.

The dark hair here outlined in black pigment, suggests a traditional wig or headdress, a common symbol of status and divine association. Traces of red and ochre hues on the face reflect the Egyptian artistic conventions used to distinguish vitality and beauty in the afterlife.

This mask is made from reused wood pieces which was a common occurrence in this late historical Ptolemaic Period (600-30 BCE) when woods from both masks and coffins were often reworked from older burials beginning from the late New Kingdom circa 1170 BCE onwards. In the back, each of the 3 authentically ancient mask pieces has differing kinds of wear, tare, scratches, grain patterns, gesso and paint losses. In the front, there are the cracks and paint losses expected on all such ancient burial sarcophagus masks.