Anubis Mask

One of a kind in the world, this mask shows the jackal-headed god, Anubis. Anubis was the god of mummification and this mask was likely worn by a priest playing the part of Anubis during the mummification or burial. This mask was probably buried with the priest who had worn it when alive.

The mask is made from cartonnage – linen and mud plaster mixed with straw. The only other known Anubis mask is ceramic and in Germany.

SUPER SCIENCE!

From microscopic examples taken by scientists at the University of York we know that the paint on the mask is made from castor oil and olive oil mixed with animal fat and conifer resin, and a sugar-based gum to fix the colour.