Tracey Emin's "Death Mask" (2002) is a significant work that marks her first foray into sculptural bronze art. This piece is a self-portrait cast in bronze, representing Emin's face as a death mask, a practice traditionally reserved for the deceased to preserve their likeness. By creating her own death mask while alive, Emin challenges conventional perceptions of mortality and self-portraiture, asserting control over how she will be remembered posthumously.

The "Death Mask" features a distressed surface that evokes the appearance of an ancient artifact, emphasizing themes of human fragility and the passage of time. This textural choice not only highlights the physicality of the medium but also suggests the erosion of identity and memory over time. Emin's decision to craft this piece aligns with her broader artistic practice of using her own body and personal history as primary subjects in her work (National Portrait Gallery) (Artlyst) .

This artwork was acquired by the National Portrait Gallery in London for £67,500, supported by contributions from the Art Fund, White Cube, and the artist herself. It is part of the gallery's "Life, Death and Memory" exhibition, which explores the complex relationship between portraiture and mortality. The exhibition includes other significant death masks and posthumous portraits, placing Emin's work within a historical context that traditionally celebrated prominent male figures, thereby challenging gender norms in historical and artistic narratives (Artlyst) (Evening Standard) .

"Death Mask" reflects Emin's ongoing engagement with themes of self-disclosure and autobiographical expression. Her work consistently blurs the boundaries between life and art, and this piece is no exception. By presenting herself as a museum artifact, Emin invites scrutiny and contemplation, transforming her personal narrative into a subject for public reflection and historical preservation (National Portrait Gallery) (Evening Standard) .

Tracey Emin's "Death Mask" is a powerful and provocative piece that encapsulates her artistic exploration of identity, mortality, and self-representation. It underscores her ability to turn deeply personal experiences into universally resonant art, continuing to challenge and redefine contemporary artistic practices.