The technique of death masks making

In taking death-masks two different techniques are used. In the technique using a plaster matrix the plaster mash is brought on the face. When the plaster-cast has dried it is filled with plaster mash. Later the matrix is removed in order to lay open the mask. In the technique using a plastic matrix the plastic powder Palgat is brought on the face after mixing it rapidly with icewater until it appears pappy. After that a layer of several centimeters of plaster mash follows in order to stabilize the delicate plastic matrix. Likewise the matrix is filled with plaster mash. The mask can be furnished with a collar and a fixation and the surface can be prepared. The skin relief of the face is reproduced finer using the cast of a plastic matrix.