Coffin Commerce: How a Funerary Materiality Formed Ancient Egypt

The wooden container for the human corpse, known as a coffin, was created, bought, used in funerary rituals, placed in a tomb, and potentially reused. Evidence from Deir el Medina shows the lifecycle of the coffin from the initial agreement between the craftsman and the seller to its ritual use in funerary activities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 10 June 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The wooden coffin, a ubiquitous and straightforward Egyptian object, holds a central place in this discussion. We will delve into its entire lifespan, from its creation to its final resting place. Our focus will be on the various aspects that encompass the coffin, including its manufacturing, acquisition, utilization in funerary rituals, placement within a tomb, and potential reuse for another deceased individual.

Drawing evidence from the archaeological site of Deir el Medina, we will trace the journey of the coffin from the initial agreement between the craftsman and the seller to the skilled hands of a carpenter who meticulously crafted it. Next, a draftsman would add a touch of artistry by plastering and painting the coffin, enhancing its visual appeal. Finally, the coffin would be put up for sale, potentially reaching individuals who sought to honor and commemorate their loved ones.

Once purchased, the coffin would be brought to the burial chamber, where it would play a crucial role in the funerary activities. It would serve as a sacred container for the deceased, providing a final resting place that would safeguard their spirit and preserve their memory. The coffin would be carefully positioned within the tomb, often adorned with intricate designs and symbols that reflected the deceased's life and beliefs.

However, the coffin's journey did not end there. In some cases, it may have been reused for another deceased person, a practice known as "secondary burial." This would involve removing the remains from the original coffin and placing them in a new one, either for practical reasons such as space constraints or for symbolic purposes to honor a different family member or ancestor.

The wooden coffin, with its simplicity and significance, holds a rich tapestry of history and culture. Through our exploration of its lifespan, we gain insights into the funeral practices, beliefs, and societal values of ancient Egypt. The coffin, a testament to the human desire for remembrance and respect, continues to captivate and intrigue us, offering a window into the past that remains deeply intertwined with our present.

Weight: 142g
Dimension: 227 x 196 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108823333