Egypt, Ptolemaic Period, 3rd - 2nd Century BC. A handsome cartonnage mask of polychromed gesso over linen. Delicately rendered facial features, with an aquiline nose, large almond eyes and small, pursed lips. The front panel has both hands, one above the other, modeled in relief with fingers outstretched. The piece is covered with numerous panels and vignettes, with borders of alternating colors. Pigments include: blue-green, yellow, buff, black, ochre, off-white and brick-red. Above the forehead is a winged scarab with uraeus, and extending down beyond the ears on both sides are alternating registers depicting Sekhmet and Anubis, rosette collar between. At bottom of front panel, is a seated image of Osiris and opposite, an ornately crowned Djed column. Atop the hood is a seated image of the deceased with outstretched arms, knotted cloths in each hand. On the left side, Anubis stands over the deceased, laid out upon a lion-headed bier, and performs the ritual opening of the mouth. On the right side, a standing priest makes an offering to a mummiform Osiris. The four corners are perforated for attachment. Carefully restored the scenes still retain incredible detail and exceptional style. H: 16", W: 8". On custom stand. A wonderful example of Ptolemaic funerary art and a fabulous display piece.