What materials were used to make ancient Egyptian funerary masks?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Carnival mask — Mask Women wearing a mask during Carnival celebrations in Venice, Italy.

Ancient Egyptian funerary masks were crafted from various materials depending on the status of the deceased. Common masks were typically made of cloth covered with stucco or plaster, which were then painted. For individuals of higher status or importance, these masks were constructed using precious metals, specifically gold and silver.1

Additionally, during the 1st and 2nd centuries CE in the Al-Fayyum region, a distinct type of portrait mask was produced by painting realistic images in encaustic on wood, which were then attached to the mummy shroud.1