Gypsum plaster mask from a Roman coffin

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Object name: Gypsum plaster mask from a Roman coffin

Accession no.: E.3.1906

Other numbers and markings: tbd

Dimensions: H 34 cm W 20.2 cm D 22.2 cm

Brief description:

Gypsum plaster mask from a Roman coffin. The mask represents a man with curly, close-fitting hair, moustache and short beard. The plaster face, neck and ears of the mask were cast in moulds, then joined. The hair and beard have been modelled separately and applied, giving an individual appearance to the head. The eyes are made from glass sheets. The mask was painted to give a naturalistic appearance and was set down onto a surround made of layers of plaster and linen placed over the head and shoulders of the mummy. Most of the fragile structure has been lost, but where it survives below the back of the head, faint traces of a painted design are visible. Other masks from the same mould were apparently made in a workshop near Tuna el-Gebel.

Date: c. AD 150

Find spot:

Unknown

Acquisition:

Uncertain

Construction, decoration and materials:

Other information

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