The Fayum Portraits and the Art of Immortality

Left to Right: Lime wood portrait of a young man, with a gilded stucco frame. Roman period Egypt, AD 150–170 ; Mummy of a Greek youth called Artemidorus in a cartonnage body-case with a lime wood portrait panel covering his face. Roman Period Egypt, early 2nd century AD; Mummy of a Greek youth called Artemidorus in a cartonnage body-case with a lime wood portrait panel covering his face. Roman Period Egypt, early 2nd century AD.

As I explored the British Museum, I felt the weight of generations press down on me as I entered each chamber, filled with artifacts from bygone eras. But what caught my eye was the charm of ancient Egypt. The Fayum portrait panels from the Roman period were among the innumerable treasures kept in the museum, and they provided a window into the world of Egyptian burial customs at the time of Roman influence. 

The practices related to mummification underwent a striking change during this time. Ancient Egyptians thought keeping the body intact would guarantee an eternity of joy. They did this by adorning mummies with elaborate burial masks, frequently made of materials like gold. The process took approximately 70 days, with special priests embalming and wrapping the body (Khan Academy). Ancient Egyptians would then remove the brain and other internal organs. In addition, the Romans practiced mummification in their 200-year rule of Egypt.

The artists were truly incredible and breathed spirit into these panels. Painted faces on the mummy's body are preserved in rich colors to remember the departed. It's as though the ancient Egyptians wanted to ensure their loved ones would be remembered even beyond death.

I wondered about the tales each panel hide as I submerged myself in its presence. Who were these people? How did their lives differ from ours? The lifelikeness of the Fayum portraits is one of their most striking features. The panels show demonstrate the artists used high skill and attention to detail, as if they were painted recently. 

Each panel's story is linked to an ancient time when art, beauty, and spirituality were entwined. I left the museum with a new respect for the enduring influence of art and the search for immortality. The painted portraits of those no longer with us have transcended the borders of time, allowing their tales to endure and enthrall those who see them.