Cartonnage Mask of a High Official, dated to 2000 – 1980 BCE

The use of a cartonnage mask is among the most distinctive features of ancient Egyptian burial practices. These masks covered the head and upper chest of the mummified individual. Typically, they were made from layers of linen and gypsum, molded to fit the shape of the deceased, and finally painted in vivid colors.

Due to their fragile nature, relatively few Middle Kingdom cartonnage masks have survived in as well-preserved a condition as this example. The face is depicted in a formal, stylized manner, giving it a somewhat rigid expression. Yet, certain details are carefully rendered: the bristles of the full beard, the mustache, and the eyebrows, all stippled in black against a blue background.

The figure wears a voluminous wig with long, rounded ends, neatly bordered with decorative trim. A broad collar of multiple bead rows features falcon-headed terminals, held in place by strings emerging from beneath the wig at the back of the mask. A simple necklace with a large pearl further adorns the figure. Most striking, however, is the richly decorated diadem over the forehead, featuring a floral motif. The original model for this diadem was made of gold and silver, inlaid with semiprecious stones such as carnelian, lapis lazuli, and turquoise.

Although the original burial location of the Walters’ mask is unknown, its style and details strongly suggest it came from the necropolis at Asyut. This important site, the capital of Upper Egypt’s 13th district, was extensively excavated in the early 20th century by a French mission and the Egyptian nobleman Sayed Khashaba Pascha. Many rock-cut tombs of Asyut nomarchs’ courtiers were discovered intact, containing original grave goods.

This mask was likely found during Khashaba’s poorly documented excavations, which left no records of associated objects, including the coffin and its inscriptions. Without information about the owner’s name or titles, the identity of this mask’s wearer remains a mystery.

Material: Cartonnage with paint
Collection: Walters Art Museum
Height: 24 3/4 in. (62.9 cm)
Origin: Asyut, Egypt