skip navigation

Immortal Spirits: The Pre-Columbian Afterlife

back to Pre-Columbian section homeDogMaskMummy Mask Tiuhuanaco Mummy Mask to Human Sacrifice section
Mummy Mask
Mummy Mask

The Tiuhuanaco people slipped sack-like mummy masks over the heads of the deceased. Tied at the top and crowned with human hair, the masks have colorful, vivacious features. The design and varying materials lend the masks a lively appearance, which eternally infused the deceased’s remains with life.

Mummy Mask
Tiuhuanaco Style
ca. 1100 C.E.
Peru
Wool, feathers, hair, and copper
(85.205)
Anonymous Gift