Literature and the Arts

What are death masks?

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The making of death masks (reproduction of the face of a dead person) is an ancient practice. Roman death masks were made of wax, and Egyptian death masks of thin gold plate. The modern method first applies oil or grease to the face and next a coat of plaster of paris, which is permitted to harden and is then removed. This procedure results in a mold that is used to cast the mask.

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Similar questions: How are death masks made? How are masks used after death? What is the purpose of a mask after death? What are death masks used for? [ Hide these questions ]

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