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Ancient Fayum Mummy Portrait Set to Fetch Up to $350,000 at Auction

KVIA•Sunday, February 1, 2026 at 3:35 AM•CNN Newsource

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A remarkable mummy portrait from the Roman Egypt period is going on auction next week, potentially selling for as much as $350,000. This piece, part of the Fayum mummy portraits created between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD, showcases a man with strikingly modern features. The portrait, painted using the encaustic technique, has been in Goucher College's collection since 1895 and highlights the naturalistic style that predates similar works by Italian masters by over a millennium. Auction experts believe this piece offers a rare glimpse into the artistic traditions of ancient Egypt and Rome, and it may have belonged to someone of high social status. Bidders should be aware of the historical significance and potential value of this artwork.

Key Details: • Auction date: next week during Sotheby's Masters Week in New York • Estimated sale price: up to $350,000 • The painting has been in Goucher College's collection since 1895 • This is the most notable Fayum portrait offered by Sotheby’s since 2007

art history auction egypt fayum

People & Organizations

New YorkSotheby'sAlexandra OlsmanGeorge WachterJohn F. GoucherGoucher CollegeWalters Art MuseumMetropolitan Museum of ArtDetroit Institute of Arts

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