The Fascinating World Of Death Masks: A Journey Through History

Throughout history, humanity has revered the passing of a person in a myriad ways. Perhaps one of the more intriguing is the preparation and creation of death masks, a final viewing of the deceased. Death masks first gained notoriety in Egypt, with the most recognizable belonging to King Tut. The Egyptians believed that the death mask, which would be buried with the individual, would allow the person's spirit to find his/her body in the afterlife. In some African tribes, it was believed that death masks could imbue the wearer with the power of the deceased. But in the Middle Ages, they became less of a spiritual commodity and more of a way of preserving the memory of the dead. Death masks were made for a range of famous and notable people and were put on display for many to see. And in a time before photography, this could be as close to the real thing as you might get.

Death has been, and may always be, shrouded in a veil of intrigue, fear, curiosity, and calm. Below, we dig up a few famous faces from their final moments:

Dante

Dante Alighieri, a philosopher and poet, is one of the most notable figures in literary history. His death mask is displayed at Palazzo Vecchio in Florence, Italy. Dante's work, particularly his epic poem, The Divine Comedy, has influenced countless writers and thinkers over the centuries. He died in exile, a victim of political turmoil in Florence, and his death mask may not even be genuine.

Life: Philosopher, Poet, Death Aficionado
Death: September 13, 1320
Cause of Death: Malaria

As with most historical figures who bucked the system, exile seemed to be the main course of action for their own actions (second to execution, of course). Amidst the political turmoil of Florence in the early 1300s, Dante fell out of favor with the ruling political faction known as the Black Guelphs. He was subsequently exiled and it was during this time that he wrote his most famous work, The Divine Comedy. And luckily, Dante was able to complete Paradiso, the last part of the almost 15,000 line epic poem, before he contracted malaria and died in 1320.

Mary Queen of Scots

Mary Queen of Scots, also known as Queen Mary I, had a life filled with political intrigue and personal turmoil. Her hand-painted death mask is a haunting testament to her tragic fate. After seeking asylum from her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, Mary found herself imprisoned for nearly two decades before meeting a gruesome end.

Life: Queen of Scotland, France (briefly) & almost England
Death: February 8, 1587
Cause of Death: Beheading

Mary Queen of Scots suffered from what could be called an unpolished demise. When it came time for her execution, she asked if she could get her affairs in order and was told, “No, no, Madam you must die, you must die! Be ready between seven and eight in the morning. It cannot be delayed a moment beyond that time.” The executioner took three tries before the beheading was complete, marking a tragic end to a turbulent life.

John Keats

John Keats, the celebrated English poet, is remembered for his beautiful poetry and tragic early death. His death mask is preserved and displayed, reflecting the young man's immense talent cut short by illness. Keats contracted tuberculosis, which ultimately took his life at a young age.

Life: Poet
Death: February 23, 1821
Cause of Death: Tuberculosis

In 1819, John Keats contracted tuberculosis, otherwise known as consumption at the time. His doctor advised him to go to Rome for warmer weather, and for a while, he felt better. However, after a year, he was bedridden once again, leading to a painful demise that inspired his poignant reflections on life and death.

Napoleon Bonaparte

Napoleon Bonaparte, the famed military leader and emperor, left behind a legacy filled with conquest and controversy. His death mask is a symbol of his tumultuous life and enduring impact on history. Despite the scientific evidence pointing to gastric cancer as the cause of death, Napoleon believed he was murdered by enemies.

Life: Military Leader, Political Leader, Emperor
Death: May 5, 1821
Cause of Death: Gastric Cancer (Or MURDER?)

In June 2013, one of only two known death masks of Napoleon Bonaparte sold at auction for roughly $260,000. His life was marked by ambition and determination, and his death continues to spark debates about the true nature of his demise.

William Blake

William Blake, the English painter, poet, and engraver, is remembered for his unique artistic vision and profound insights into the human experience. His death mask remains a notable artifact, symbolizing his struggle with illness and the challenges he faced throughout his life.

Life: Artist, Poet
Death: August 12, 1827
Cause of Death: Slightly Unknown

Blake himself exclaimed that he suffered from "that sickness to which there is no name." His later works faced harsh criticism, yet he continued to create, driven by his unique visions and beliefs. Before his death, he began a series of sketches called "visionary heads," which reflected his ongoing quest for artistic expression.

Michael Collins

Michael Collins, a key figure in Ireland's fight for independence, is remembered for his bravery and leadership. His death mask serves as a poignant reminder of his commitment to his country and the sacrifices he made. Collins was assassinated in a violent ambush during the Irish Civil War.

Life: Activist, Military Leader, Political Leader
Death: August 22, 1922
Cause of Death: Assassination

Collins died in the crossfire of an ambush by the I.R.A. at a crossroads in the Irish village of Béal na Bláth. The identity of the individual who actually shot Collins remains unknown, but his legacy as a revolutionary leader endures. Upon hearing the news of his death, his rival Eamon De Valera remarked that history would record the greatness of Collins at his own expense.

John Dillinger

John Dillinger, known as America's most notorious bank robber, is a figure who remains etched in criminal folklore. His death mask, taken after he was shot by the FBI, sparked controversy and speculation about his identity. Dillinger's life of crime ended dramatically outside Chicago's Biograph Theater.

Life: Thief, Organized Crime Boss
Death: July 22, 1934
Cause of Death: Killed by the FBI

Many Chicago residents were skeptical about the identity of the corpse displayed as Dillinger. Even his father doubted it was his son due to missing scars and discrepancies in appearance. However, the FBI confirmed the mask's accuracy, solidifying Dillinger's place in criminal history.