Death Mask of Agamemnon

Definition

The Death Mask of Agamemnon is a gold funerary mask discovered at the ancient Mycenaean site of Mycenae, attributed to the late 16th century BCE. This iconic artifact symbolizes the burial practices of the Mycenaean elite, showcasing their wealth and status while also providing insights into the cultural practices surrounding death and the afterlife during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Death Mask of Agamemnon was discovered by Heinrich Schliemann in 1876 during his excavations at Mycenae and is considered one of the most important finds in Greek archaeology.
2. Made from gold and measuring about 12 inches in height, the mask depicts a face with exaggerated features, believed to represent a ruler or high-status individual from Mycenaean society.
3. The craftsmanship of the mask highlights the advanced metalworking skills of the Mycenaeans and their connection to other cultures in the Eastern Mediterranean.
4. Although it was named after Agamemnon, there is no direct evidence linking the mask to the legendary king of Mycenae from Homer's 'Iliad'; it reflects more on the burial customs of the time.
5. The mask has become an iconic symbol of Mycenaean culture, representing not only funerary practices but also the wealth and artistry associated with this ancient civilization.

Review Questions

• How does the Death Mask of Agamemnon reflect the social status and beliefs of Mycenaean culture?
  • The Death Mask of Agamemnon serves as a testament to the social hierarchy of Mycenaean culture, where elaborate funerary practices were reserved for elite individuals. The use of gold and intricate craftsmanship indicates significant wealth and status, suggesting that those buried with such artifacts were considered important figures. Additionally, the mask's design reflects beliefs about death and the afterlife, indicating that rulers may have been thought to possess a lasting presence even after death.
• Discuss how Linear B contributes to our understanding of Mycenaean society and its connection to artifacts like the Death Mask of Agamemnon.
  • Linear B provides crucial insights into Mycenaean society by revealing administrative records, economic activities, and social structures. The texts often reference religious practices, offerings, and even funerary customs, which can be linked to artifacts like the Death Mask of Agamemnon. This connection suggests that such masks were not merely decorative but played a role in rituals associated with death and burial, further enriching our understanding of Mycenaean beliefs about life after death.
• Evaluate the significance of the Death Mask of Agamemnon within the broader context of Mycenaean burial customs and their influence on later Greek cultures.
  • The Death Mask of Agamemnon holds significant importance not only as a hallmark of Mycenaean burial customs but also in its influence on later Greek cultures. Its discovery highlights how funerary practices evolved, showcasing a blend of artistry and ritual significance that persisted through subsequent civilizations. The mask's connection to themes of heroism and legacy can be seen echoed in later Greek literature and art, particularly in works that reference legendary figures like Agamemnon, demonstrating how these early traditions laid groundwork for cultural narratives in ancient Greece.

Related terms

Mycenaean Tombs: Elaborate burial sites built for the elite members of Mycenaean society, often containing valuable grave goods and demonstrating the social hierarchy of the time.

Linear B: The earliest known form of Greek writing, used primarily for administrative purposes in Mycenaean palaces and providing insights into their economy and culture.

Citadel of Mycenae: A fortified palace complex that served as a political and economic center in Mycenaean civilization, showcasing impressive architecture and defensive structures.