From the Late Period ( 664-332 B.C. ) this wood mask was acquired from an antiquity dealer in Southern California. It has been authenticated by Dr. Serop Simonian (from Hamburg Germany) . . . a well known Egyptologist.
Burials in the Late Period made use of large-scale, temple-like tombs built for – perhaps – a non-royal elite. However, the majority of tombs in this period were in shafts sunk into the desert floor. The art of mummification had reached its highest level at this time. Large scale temples were no longer necessary to honor the individual and to allow the spirit of the deceased to recognize its own body, joyfully return to it…. and be reborn. In addition to fine statuary and reliefs reflecting the style of the Old Kingdom, the majority of grave goods were specially made for the tomb and the deceased.
Capturing the identity & spirit of the deceased was closely connected with Egyptian strong religious beliefs. This mask falls into that category.
Whether it came from the famed Scheps Collection in Switzerland or some other Swiss collection, I was not able to find out.
This mask in “preserved condition” was legally brought to the U.S. and the dealer I purchased it from has been in business for over 60 years.
The mask comes with an acrylic stand.
Only for the Serious Collector.