An Egyptian Cartonnnage Mummy Mask in Erie, CO

This is a beautiful mummy mask or, more properly described, a head cover. It is a particularly fine example because of its vibrant colours. It dates to the Graeco-Roman Period, circa 1st century BC - 1st century CE.The face is characterized by large eyes and eyebrows, a small nose and a small, smiling mouth with full lips which are not painted but indicated in profile. The prominent ears are visible in front of the lappets of the tripartite wig. These lappets are falling in front of the shoulders and chest, and probably imitate hair or a headcloth, decorated with alternating yellow and blue or black stripes. A reticulated or checkerboard pattern can be seen to the left and right of the lappets as well as above the hairband. Between the lappets a broad collar is visible on the chest, displaying a decoration of lotus flowers, small circles or dots, and other elements, probably imitating strings of beads. Some water lines are also visible.Above the forehead is a diadem or striped headband, holding the wig in its place, with a central sun disc. Partly on the forehead and partly on top of the head we see the depiction of a vulture, its wings spread in a sign of protection; the animal is wearing the white crown of Upper Egypt and might therefore be a representation of the goddess Nekhbet. A sun disk can be seen near the head of the goddess. She is carrying two round objects in her talons, which are probably shen signs, symbolising eternity. From these a ribbon runs to either side, mixing with the stripes on the lappets of the wig.The mask has incredibly beautiful colours