A Stunning Replica of King Agamemnon's Funerary Mask

This exquisite ornament is meticulously crafted in Greece from gold-plated brass, elegantly mounted on a marble base. Its design is inspired by a significant archaeological discovery: a stunning artifact unearthed at the ancient site of Mycenae. This original ornament, fashioned from a single sheet of hammered and chased gold, was found by the renowned German archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann in 1876. Dating back to approximately the 16th century BCE, it provides a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of the Bronze Age.

Schliemann, celebrated for his groundbreaking work in uncovering the ancient city of Troy, initially declared this magnificent piece to be the death mask of King Agamemnon of Mycenae. Agamemnon, a central figure in Homer's Iliad, is depicted as a powerful and tragic character. In the epic, he is known for his sacrificial offering of his daughter Iphigenia to appease the goddess Artemis and his contentious relationship with the hero Achilles, which includes the dramatic confiscation of Achilles' "war prize," Briseis.

However, more recent archaeological research and scholarly analysis have cast doubt on Schliemann's initial identification. Experts now believe that the artifact predates the Trojan War and the events described in the Iliad by several centuries, likely 300 to 400 years. This reevaluation places the creation of the mask in a period long before the legendary tales of Homer, suggesting it may represent an earlier, unnamed figure of significant status in Mycenaean society.

The modern replica captures the essence of this ancient masterpiece, allowing admirers to appreciate the beauty and historical significance of the original. By blending ancient design with contemporary craftsmanship, this ornament serves as a timeless tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Greece and the enduring legacy of Mycenaean art.

This remarkable ornament is a sensational addition to any home, celebrating a wealth of ancient history.

The original is housed in the National Archaeological Museum, Athens.

See the Aristeia of Agamemnon.

Product Information

Material: Gold-plated brass, marble base

Dimensions: H19 x W12cm

Postage Weight: 0.50kg