Ancient Egyptian Coffins: Past - Present - Future

This collection of papers by international experts explores the development, post-antiquity history, and technical examination of ancient Egyptian coffins, shedding light on belief systems, craftsmanship, and the re-use of materials. The papers are based on a project at the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, and accompany a major exhibition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2018
Publisher: Oxbow Books

This comprehensive collection of scholarly papers, brought together by esteemed international experts in the field of ancient Egyptian coffins, represents a significant extension of a project initially based at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge. The papers delve into a range of captivating topics, offering fresh perspectives on ancient Egyptian belief systems across different eras and regional variations in coffin presentation. They explore the evolution of coffins throughout antiquity, encompassing iconographic and text-based studies, which shed light on the intricate tapestry of ancient Egyptian culture. Moreover, the papers shed light on the post-antiquity history of coffins, encompassing their acquisition, conservation, and display in museums worldwide. They also discuss advancements in technical examination and methods of studying coffins, such as the utilization of multispectral imaging to conduct non-invasive analyses of materials, providing invaluable insights into construction techniques and decorative styles across various periods. These findings challenge prevailing notions about the purpose of coffins as containers of human remains and challenge our understanding of the practices of craftsmen in the funerary industry. The papers originated from a conference held at the Museum in conjunction with a major new exhibition, further enriching our understanding of this captivating subject.

Weight: 1158g
Dimension: 287 x 215 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785709180