With highly refined features this superb mask embodies the best of early bronze work. Eyes are bulbous, ears flared, the delicate mouth is slightly parted, the chin tapers from a...
With highly refined features this superb mask embodies the best of early bronze work. Eyes are bulbous, ears flared, the delicate mouth is slightly parted, the chin tapers from a wide forehead upon which is a design in the shape of an arrowhead. This is most likely a form of scarification indicative of the period, with the two sides at right angles curved like a twisting snake. The mask was probably worn on the hip as a symbol of honor by a high ranking person. It represents sophisticated bronze work, conveying a strong sense of "personality" and "presence," that says a great deal about the blacksmith's skill.