Votive mask

The small terracotta theatre mask was made in Egypt. It was not actually worn on stage, where the actors used practical masks made of light and thus perishable materials. It was found in the cult room of an Egyptian tomb, a chamber where the family placed votive offerings before an image of the deceased and where his or her favourite belongings were placed. This little mask may have been a burial gift as well. Terracotta, Hawara, Egypt, ca. 2nd century AD. Inventory number: 7379