MU logo University of Missouri sitemap | map | parking | directions | contact the museum
Home | Museum Info | Calendar | Education | Exhibitions | Collections | Support
Home | Exhibitions | Online | Final Farewell Home | Pre-Columbian Home

Final Farewell: The Culture of Death and the Afterlife

Immortal Spirits: The Pre-Columbian Afterlife

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

Mummy Mask with Inlaid EyesMummy Mask with Inlaid Eyes

The Chancay culture typically placed a mask atop the mummy bundle containing the body. Twine inserted into holes on the top and sides of the masks secured them in place. Their open eyes and slightly smiling expressions infused the mummified remains with life, thereby immortalizing the deceased’s soul.

Mummy Mask with Inlaid Eyes
Chancay culture
1100–1450 C.E.
Peru, Central Coast
Wood, shell, paint, and plaster
(84.177)
Gift of Bernard R. Sperling

 

Copyright © 2011 The Curators of the University of Missouri | DMCA | all rights reserved
An equal opportunity/affirmative action institution

Museum of Art and Archaeology | College of Arts and Science | University of Missouri
1 Pickard Hall | Columbia, MO 65211-1420 | phone: 573-882-3591 | fax: 573-884-4039 | Email the museum
AAM logoaccredited by the American Association of Museums

Museum Hours
Tuesday through Friday:
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Open Thursdays until 8:00 pm
Saturday and Sunday:
Noon - 4:00 pm
Closed
Mondays
University of Missouri observed holidays
Christmas Day through New Year’s Day

Admission is free and open to the public.
The Museum is ADA Accessible.