Fayum Mummy Portraits 

Fayum mummy portraits are a unique form of ancient Roman portraiture, painted in encaustic on wood panels. They were created in the Fayum region of Egypt between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD and were placed over the faces of deceased individuals in their tombs. The portraits, like this one from the Louvre Museum, are renowned for their realistic and expressive depictions, showcasing the individuality and social status of the deceased. They offer valuable insights into Roman culture and provide a glimpse into the lives of people who lived in this vibrant region during the Roman period.