Mask

Item number Sf566 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Data
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Description

A mask made of sheet metal with humanoid features. Has an overall square shape. The mask is convexly shaped in the upper area and has holes in each corner. Two cotton strings are attached through the upper holes. The eyes are almond-shaped and the nose is in high relief. The small, downturned mouth is flanked by diagonal lines defining the cheeks. Metal areas show through a black layer. There are textile impressions on the area around the mouth.

History Of Use

The dead are generally placed in a seated, flexed position and wrapped in layers of cloth. In important burials, masks like this were positioned over the face area of the mummy bundle. Like this specimen, masks were frequently covered with red paint. The almond shaped eye compares most closely with masks from the south coast area.

Narrative

Ica or chincha style ? Late Intermediate Period; 1000-1470 C.E.

Item History

Made in Peru between 1000 and 1470
Collected between 1949 and 1966
Owned by Anonymous before May 4, 1981
Received from Anonymous (Donor) on May 4, 1981

What

Name: Mask
Identification Number: Sf566
Type of Item: mask
Material: copper metal ?, paint ?, cotton fibre, silver metal ?, gold metal and dye
Manufacturing Technique: hammered, gilded, embossed, painted, plied and spun
Overall: height 5.2 cm, width 16.4 cm, depth 14.8 cm