Funeral Mask | NCMA Explore

Description

This Sicán funerary mask is made from a type of gold metal that was abundant to the Sicán. Its color indicates that it is an alloy, or mixture of metals. During the time in which it was made, the mixture of metals would have most likely been gold, silver, and copper. Artifacts of this kind are reported to have been used to adorn the bodies of deceased rulers inside their burial spots. The underside of the mask shows faint traces of the wrappings that once enveloped the mummy. The detailed facial painting indicates the high status of the individual. Since mummification was used to preserve the power of the deceased individuals, scholars believe funerary masks were created to help the deceased embody the power of the Sicán deities or divine rulers. [https://learn.ncartmuseum.org/artwork/funerary-mask/ ](http://) *v1.5*