Language Arts

— Make a list of all of the words you can think of that have mirror symmetry. Words like MOM, WOW, and TOOT all look like their images when seen in a mirror. Draw the words in the space below.

— This is a mummy mask from the Egyptian Gallery at the San Antonio Museum of Art. It is from the Ptolmaic Period, 304-330 B.C. Look at the gilt face and the lively expression.

Write a short biography about this person from the "clues" you can read in the face of the mask. Here are some ideas to get you started.

- How old is this person?

- Is it male or female?

- What is its name?

- What was its occupation?

- What was its favorite color?

- Did it have a pet?

- What did it have for breakfast?

- Did it have a job?

Share your story with others in class and see how many of your answers agree based on the facial clues found in this mask.

Egyptian, Ptolemaic Period, 304-30 B.C.
Painted Plaster on Linen
Gift of Gilbert M. Denman, Jr.
91.80.119

This mummy mask displays an interesting blend of Egyptian and Hellenistic features, although the overall appearance is very much in keeping with traditional Egyptian funerary art. Noteworthy are the Hellenistic curls that emerge form the Egyptian headcloth and the gilt face with its lively eyes and expression.