Fayum mummy portraits

Fayum mummy portraits are realistic paintings of deceased individuals created in Egypt during the Roman period, roughly 1st to 3rd centuries AD. They were applied to wooden panels and placed over the faces of mummies in burial wrappings. These portraits capture the likeness and personality of the deceased, often displaying vibrant colors and intricate details. They reflect a blend of Greco-Roman and Egyptian artistic styles, highlighting the cultural exchange of the time. Today, Fayum mummy portraits are valued for their historical significance, providing insight into ancient Egyptian society, art, and funerary practices.