Mask parade (From Gazette & Herald)

Mask parade

AN ancient mask that adorned the head of an Egyptian mummy went on display in North Yorkshire today following a painstaking restoration.

The mask, which is on show at the Royal Pump Room Museum, in Harrogate, is originally thought to have come from Thebes and Akhimin, and is believed to date from between 50BC and 50AD.

A team of experts carried out an arduous £1,000 project to restore the piece.

It is made from cartonnage - a sort of ancient paper-mache, made up of layers of linen and papyrus, stiffened with plaster.

The head of Harrogate Museums and Arts, Mary Kershaw, said staff were delighted with the conservation work.

"Even old photographs don't indicate how beautiful this mask is," she said.

"Specialist modern techniques have enabled us to see the mask almost as it would have appeared to the Egyptians who made it. It really brings us closer to that ancient culture."

The mask arrived at the museum as part of a bequest from Harrogate businessman, and keen archaeologist, James Roberts Ogden, more than 70 years ago.

Meanwhile, Mr Ogden's family firm is still sparkling today.

Ben Ogden, 28, has become the fifth generation Ogden to join the firm.

He joins Ogden of Harrogate, started by his great-great grandfather, James, in 1893 when it was known as The Little Diamond Shop.

Ben brings to the James Street store his experience in national and international jewellery valuations from Bonhams Auctioneers in London. Before that he worked for a number of world-renowned jewellers, including Boodle and Dunthorne and Spink Jewellery, as well as auction house Christie's.

Ben's father, Glen Ogden, managing director, said: "I'm sure that Ben's extensive experience will be invaluable to the business. I am proud that he's continuing the family tradition."

Updated: 12:43 Thursday, October 24, 2002