Archaeologists at the site of ancient Bubastis in the Nile Delta have discovered a cache of five mica-dusted feline masks made of stiffened linen and plaster. These masks, dating to the Late Period, were worn by priestesses during the Beautiful Festival of the Goddess Bastet. The use of powdered mica would have made the masks shimmer brilliantly under the Egyptian sun, creating a 'divine glow' as the participants danced through the city streets.
Scholars state that these masks were part of the logistical preparations for a festival that attracted hundreds of thousands of pilgrims. The discovery highlights the role of costume and theatricality in ancient religious life, showing how visual effects were used to manifest the presence of the goddess among the celebrating crowds.