In Case 1, you’ll see gold objects once used to decorate the deceased—an essential part of ancient funerary customs. These finds, uncovered inside tombs, reflect beliefs about the afterlife. Among them are gold mouthpieces, which were used to cover the mouth of the deceased. While particularly associated with the Archaic period, the idea of covering parts of the face of the deceased can be traced back to Homeric times.

One standout example is a lozenge-shaped mouthpiece adorned with two upright lions facing each other, their heads turned backward. Framed by geometric and plant designs, this piece constitutes a unique example of Archaic art. Two small holes on the sides were used to fasten it to the burial cloth, securing it in place over the mouth.