Ancient Egyptian Polychrome Painted Cartonnage Mask
Late Period to Early Greco-Roman Period, c. 600–300 BC

A finely preserved fragment of an ancient Egyptian polychrome painted cartonnage funerary mask, constructed from multiple layers of linen coated with a plaster preparation and finished with vividly painted pigments. Despite its fragmentary state, the piece retains remarkable artistic quality, preserving the expressive eyes, a complete ear, and the distinctive blue-striped tripartite wig. Delicate blue eyeliner and eyebrows remain sharply defined, while red, blue, and black decorative borders frame the face, complemented by a red painted outline.

The sculptural modeling is exceptionally naturalistic, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship characteristic of Late Period funerary workshops. Although the nose and lips have been lost through the natural passage of time, the surviving features clearly demonstrate the elegance and refinement of the original mask.

The reverse preserves patches of ancient bituminous resin, absorbed into the linen where the mask rested against the mummy during the embalming process. These traces are consistent with the oils and resins used in mummification, which gradually permeated the cartonnage over centuries.

ExJ. Wayne Collection, NV., from a private California collection, accompanied by its original handwritten information receipt.