This coffin fragment is made from wood decorated with painted gesso (plaster) on a linen base. It is the centre section of an anthropoid coffin. The decoration was believed to help the dead rise to life from within the coils of the snake. The wings of Isis protect the dead person. Late Dynastic, 26th Dynasty.

Wooden coffin fragment with female winged goddess (Isis?) and wadjat eyes. Snake along bottom. Centre panel of an anthropoid coffin. The decoration was believed to aid the deceased's restoration to life from within the coils of the encircling serpent and protective embrace of the goddess Isis. The snake represents the non-existence which encompasses the world called by the Romans Ouroborus. 33.5cm long.

Collection

Egypt Centre, University of Swansea

Inventory Number

3543721

Title

This coffin fragment is made from wood decorated with painted gesso (plaster) on a linen base. It is the centre section of an anthropoid coffin. The decoration was believed to help the dead rise to life from within the coils of the snake. The wings of Isis protect the dead person. Late Dynastic, 26th Dynasty.

Object Type

Image

Measurements

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