In an era before photography, death masks served an important purpose to preserve the facial features of the deceased so future sculptors and artists could create accurate reproductions. Made from wax or plaster, the mask was made soon after death. Here is the death mask of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Death masks can be traced to the ancient Romans and possibly ancient Egyptians. So although the technology and technique existed during the time the Bible was written, there is no record of death masks made of the great saints of the Bible. Of course, the face that many would like to see is that of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. For thousands of years, artists have speculated as countless works of art can attest. Yet, the truth is no one really knows, and perhaps that is a good thing.
My servant grew up in the LORD’s presence like a tender green shoot, like a root in dry ground. There was nothing beautiful or majestic about his appearance, nothing to attract us to him. He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care.
Isaiah 53:2-3 (NLT)
The prophet Isaiah wrote these words over a thousand years before the birth of Jesus Christ. The Gospels do not give a clue to His physical features. This description provides a somewhat unflattering description. This was the plan of God the Father. We are drawn to Jesus, not because of his physical beauty or appearance. We are drawn to Jesus Christ because of our faith. Faith comes by hearing and hearing is by the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
Our sins blind us to the true beauty of Jesus Christ. It is His glorious presence which we should seek. We will someday see His true physical beauty when we gaze upon the face of our Lord and Savior in the unimaginable glory of Heaven.
One thing I have asked from the LORD, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the LORD And to meditate in His temple. Psalms 27:4 (NASB)
Amen!
Love and trust in the Lord; seek His will in your life.
The Bereans Blog 
