This wooden face mask, dating to the New Kingdom’s 18th Dynasty (c. 1550–1292 B.C.), once adorned an ancient Egyptian coffin. Such masks were created to protect the deceased and provide an idealized image for the afterlife, reflecting the belief that preserving identity was essential for rebirth.

This face, carved from wood (the specific type of wood is currently unknown), measures 22.8 cm and was acquired by the British Museum in 1843 from the collection of Somerset Lowry-Corry, 2nd Earl Belmore (1774–1841).

Originally, it was intended to be attached to a coffin; however, whether it was ever actually mounted is unknown, as only the face itself survives.

The beautifully carved, serene visage would originally have featured inlaid eyes and brows made of semi-precious stones and/or glass.

Source: Egypt-Museum