
The Roman Egyptian plaster masks currently on view at the museum date to between the first and third centuries CE, and were originally part of coffins that held the mummies of the deceased. These objects are from the Eton College Myers Collection in Windsor, England, and are currently on loan to the Johns Hopkins Archaeological Museum.
Poet’s Statement
I wrote “In Egypt” inspired by the “Roman Mummy Masks” exhibit by Betsy Bryan. I tried to write about how with traditional Egyptian burial practices still in place despite the Roman conquerors, the memory of the dead would be remembered forever through their masks. Specifically, the depiction of theirĀ face on the mask was most likely how they looked at their prime, and I wanted to emphasize that when they die they will be remembered like they are depicted on their mask.
In Egypt
Perishing in Egypt is a wonder
While now when you die
You are lost in time
Cremated ashes placed in coffin
Perishing in Egypt means forever
Fitted with a mask of honor
You will never be forgotten
A face always present
Eyes inlaid with glass
Wood painted with wax
Hair set properly and
Jewelry donned on your neck
Your mask becomes you
A replica of your face
As healthy and strong as
When you lived at your prime
Fitted with your crown now
Your visage is ideal
A moment in time
Captured with a plaster mask