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Encaustic on wood, height 15-3/4 inches
Egypt, Hawara, Roman Period, 2d century ad
The practice of mummification continued well into the Roman period. Panel portraits such as this were displayed in the home during their owners' lifetimes. After death, they were cut down to size and wrapped over the head of the mummy, at which time the gold jewelry and other details were applied. Some of the original red paint can be seen here under the gilded lips.
John L. Severance Fund, 71.137
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