Cartonnage

Cartonnage is a technique used in ancient Egypt to create funerary masks and coffins. It involves layering linen or papyrus with plaster to form a rigid, lightweight shell. Artists then paint and decorate this shell with detailed designs and colors, often depicting the deceased’s face and symbolic imagery. The finished cartonnage served both as a protective covering and as a spiritual aid in the afterlife, helping reconnect the deceased with divine powers. It combines craftsmanship and religious significance, showcasing the Egyptians’ skills in artistry and burial traditions.