This poignant item is a death mask, presented in a modern but sympathetically distressed box frame.

The death mask was a way of making a permanent record of a deceased person before the invention of photography.

Sometimes this was purely as a memento to be kept by the family. On other occasions a death mask was created to serve as a model for a posthumous portrait. Death masks were even created as a way for the police to record unidentified and unclaimed bodies.

I purchased this one from a London dealer and although it is a 20th century mask, it is thought to be a cast from a much older original death mask taken from a condemned criminal.

It has been carefully mounted into a modern, fabric lined shadow box, which really displays the piece in its full glory.

The shadow box frame has a deliberately distressed crackle glaze black surround with antique gold coloured highlights.

MEASUREMENTS

DEATH MASK - 26cms long by 15cms wide (these measurements are approximate as it is very difficult to measure the face due to the contours)

FRAME - 37cms by 37cm

CONDITION

Very good condition.

Although this is a 20th century mask, it isn't brand new so there are a few very minor signs of age.

Frame is new but purposefully distressed to appear more in keeping with the mask.

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS

You are welcome to return your item to us for exchange or refund up to 30 days after the delivery date.

Items must be sent back in the same condition they arrived.

We do not pay return postage.

We will not refund or exchange items that have been damaged by you unless they have failed to cope with fair wear and tear.

Please obtain proof of postage if you are returning an item.

Delivery (in the UK) is second class (unless otherwise stated).

Items cannot be declared lost or undelivered until 14 days from the posting date.

Items will not be posted until cleared funds have been received.

Payment in pounds sterling please.