Since the very first issue of Archaeological Dialogues, the same enigmatic mask has adorned its cover. In fact, this beautiful object was found in an Iron Age settlement near Middelstum in the province of Groningen, the Netherlands, and is on display at the Groningen Museum.  

After the initial discovery of the main fragment, a second fragment was discovered and added. The preserved fragments measure 20 by 10.5 cm. 

Having only one eye and half a mouth, the mask represents the fragmentary nature of archaeological evidence, the elusiveness of the past, as well as the need for ongoing discussion in a field where interpretation is open-ended.