Egyptian or Near Eastern Limestone Anthropomorphic Mask

Egypt or Levant, Circa 1500-1200 BC Facial section of a limestone sarcophagus lid showing a man's face with deep-set eyes, well formed nose and raised thin lipped mouth. Large ears at sides and simple domed head wrap. Size: 11 inches H x 13 inches W. + custom stand. Anthropoid coffins are remnants of the Egyptian presence in the Levant, and date to end of the Late Bronze and early Iron Ages.   Anthropoid coffins resemble the human form and are roughly cylindrical, tapering from a domed top to a flat base. Some of the lids depict the deceased in a naturalistic style, and some in a grotesque style with exaggerated facial features. Anthropoid coffins were used primarily for the burial of adult males and the burial often contained rich grave goods. The practice of burial in anthropoid coffins originated in Egypt, and they can also be found at sites like Beth Shean were officials or army officers of Egyptian origin are buried. Provenance: Ex New York trade, acquired by Dr. Henry Cherrick, a