Portrait of a thin-faced man

Unknown

A.D. 140–170 · Encaustic on limewood with gold leaf · Egyptian Art

This man's intent, direct gaze and parted lips make him seem restive. The remarkably free brushwork builds up forms without reliance on clean contours. The portrait has striking atmospheric qualities, such as the strands of seeminly damp hair that cling to the man's brow. The gilding of the wreath and background was added after the panel had been inserted into the mummy wrapping. For more on the technique used to create this portrait, see 09.181.1.

Artist

Unknown

Date

A.D. 140–170

Medium

Encaustic on limewood with gold leaf

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1909