Half-Mask:
One of the most striking features of Erik's appearance is the half-mask that covers his face, usually made of white and black leather, and worn tied to the head. This mask conceals a large part of his upper face, including his nose, mouth, and one of his eyes.
Deformity:
Erik is described to have a severe facial deformity or disfigurement. The details of this disfigurement are left ambiguous, but it's often depicted in adaptations and illustrations as a fleshy growth, birth defect, or scarring that distorts his features. This deformity is one of the reasons he hides behind the mask and lives a solitary life.
Physical Strength and Agility:
Despite his deformity and the resulting isolation, Erik is physically strong and agile. He's able to navigate the hidden passageways of the Paris Opera House with ease and displays remarkable skills with certain physical tasks.
Muscular Build:
In some interpretations of the character, Erik is portrayed with a muscular and powerful physique, contrasting with his deformities. This aspect reinforces his duality as both a menacing presence and a victim.
Phantom:
Erik's elusive and mysterious nature is highlighted by his nickname, "The Phantom of the Opera." He is often described as a specter or a ghost-like figure, haunting the opera house and remaining an enigmatic presence despite his physical attributes.