Mask of Warka

The Mask of Warka (named after the modern village of Warka located close to the ancient city of Uruk), also known as the Lady of Uruk, dating from 3100 BC, is one of the earliest known representations of the human face. The carved white marble female face is probably a depiction of Inanna. It is approximately 20 cm (8 inches) tall, and was probably incorporated into a larger wooden cult image, though it is only a presumption that a deity is represented. It is without parallels in the period. It is in the National Museum of Iraq, having been recovered undamaged after being looted during the United States invasion of Iraq in 2003.

It could depict a goddess. Inanna has been suggested. Shells may have served as the whites of the eyes, and a lapis lazuli, a blue semi-precious gemstone, may have formed the pupils.

Description

The Mask of Warka is unique in that it is the first accurate depiction of the human face. Previous attempts, like the Tell Brak Head, were not anatomically accurate, and featured exaggerated noses and ears. At 21.2 centimetres (8.3 in) tall, the mask was most likely originally part of a whole, life sized statue, probably made of wood, with the exposed areas of "skin" (arms, hands, feet, and most obviously the head) being the only ones made of the much rarer white marble. The back of the head would have been covered with bitumen and then colored metal — most likely either gold leaf or copper. This combination would have then extended over the forehead in waves. This hairpiece would have been attached to the Mask with metal studs, which could possibly have been engraved. The hollowed out eyes and eyebrows bear traces of an ancient inlay, perhaps shell and lapis lazuli. Perforations at the ears indicate that the image once wore jewelry. Parts of the eyebrows and hair were also emphasized with colored inlays.

The back of the head is flat, with drill holes for attachment.