Andlitsmaskar

Andlitsmaskar is a Swedish term that translates to "death masks." Historically, these were casts made of the faces of deceased individuals, particularly those of significant social standing or historical importance. The practice of creating death masks originated in ancient times and continued in various cultures for centuries.

The primary purpose of creating a death mask was to preserve a likeness of the deceased. This was often done for remembrance, to create a more tangible connection to the departed, or as part of a funerary ritual. In some cases, death masks were used as a basis for posthumous portraits or sculptures, allowing artists to capture the features of a person they might never have seen alive or to ensure accuracy in their depictions.

The materials used for creating death masks varied. Plaster was a common material, poured over the face after death. Other methods might have involved wax or even imprints taken directly from the skin. These masks were often delicate and were preserved as valuable artifacts. Famous individuals whose death masks exist include royalty, artists, and political figures, offering a unique glimpse into their physical appearance after their passing. The practice has largely fallen out of common use with the advent of photography.