Máscara funeraria

This funerary mask is made from a type of gold metal that was abundant to the Sicán people. The mask’s color indicates that it is an alloy, or mixture of metals. During the time in which the mask was made, the mixture of metals would have most likely been gold, silver, and copper. Artifacts of this kind were used to adorn the bodies of deceased rulers inside their burial places. 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 who wore the mask. Mummification was used to preserve the power of a deceased individual. Scholars believe that funerary masks were created to help the deceased embody the power of the Sicán deities or divine rulers.

The cheeks and forehead of this mask were painted with a thin layer of cinnabar. Ancient Americans used cinnabar on sculptures and in murals. They also used it for important ceremonies and burials of individuals with high social status. Many cultures have used red pigments in their burial traditions. These pigments were used in graves, on bodies, and on burial masks. Sometimes human blood was even mixed with cinnabar to create a special paint. This red paint was applied directly to the body of the deceased.

The blue-green beads in the center of the eyes are most likely made of turquoise. Similar funerary masks, with the same type of eyes, have been found during archaeological excavations. The mask’s form is consistent with the Lambayeque (Sicán) style. It features upturned (wing-shaped) eyes, a prominent nose, a thin mouth, and round ornaments on the ears. There are two tiny holes in each side of the mask. They may have been punched into the metal in order to attach danglers.