I don't know anything about the history of one, though it very much has the feeling of a  death mask, and I find the carved face very beautiful. It appears to be very old, with worm trails visible across the flattened face of the nose, and on the flat back side, and an old repaired split along one side, joined by iron nails that have beautifully bled. It's the sensitively carved lips I find most beautiful, just very slightly open, as if getting ready to speak. I found an example of an Egyptian mummy mask that it bears some resemblance too, but I have no definitive information. 

7"x 6"x 4". Very rich patina and warmth to the dry surface of the wood. Worm holes visible on the much flattered nose and on the back side, old repair to one side. Sturdy and sound, and will stand on its own resting on the chin as shown in first photo.