Large Egyptian wood sarcophagus mask

A large and attractive Egyptian wood sarcophagus mask, Late Period, c. 700 - 30 BC, wearing a striped wig, the brownish-red face with handsome features, the eyes wide and detailed with black cosmetic lines including the brows. Carved from a solid piece of wood with additional pieces for the ears, the gesso covered linen surface with untouched well-preserved original paint. 12 1/8" x 12" (30.7 x 30.4 cm). A very handsome example and mounted in a custom lucite box. Note from the consignor: This "mummy mask" was obtained in 1992 from K. Ross, who was liquidating the estate of her late father, George Ross, #1375652, A.E.F. (American Expeditionary Forces) in Europe during WWI, Mule Corps. ("Mule Skinner"), saw considerable action including Verdun. He was then sent off to Egypt to investigate the possible use of camels in the European theater as "pack" animals. He told his daughter before his death that he was appalled by Cairo, commenting that he had not expected such a crowded, squalid and truly dirty place. He was so shocked, that upon his return to Europe he spoke naught of his time there. She found this piece in the basement of his house in a cardboard box wrapped in newspaper, near the furnace. Considering how he felt about Egypt, it was a complete surprise! Appraisal from Butterfields attesting to its authenticity included.