Mosaic Jade Mask, Maya Classic Period, 603 A.D. – 683 A.D.
This is a copy in jadeite of the burial mask of King K’inich Janaab’ Pakal. The original of this mosaic mask was found covering the face of the King K’inich Janaab’ Pakal in Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico. Pakal had his burial pyramid built during his lifetime. On his death on August 31, 683 A.D. his body was placed in the sarcophagus under the Temple of the Inscriptions. His body was prepared for burial as befitting a king of such importance. The body was covered with a treasure-trove of jade, mother-of-pearl and ceramic.
The name “Pakal” translates as Hand Shield. The original is displayed in the National Museum of Anthropology and History in Mexico City.
