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Ancient Origins Tour IRAQ

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Egyptian coffin. Source: George Bailey / Adobe Stock.

Unveiling the Forgotten: Opening Ancient Egyptian Coffins (Video)

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In the heart of Thebes, modern-day Luxor, lies a collection of ancient coffins shrouded in mystery. For years, these enigmatic artifacts have been confined to vitrines, receiving only sporadic attention. However, thanks to a generous grant from the Dean's Competitive Fund, a remarkable endeavor is now underway. A team of experts has assembled, including conservators, photographers, pigment sampling specialists, and wood analysis experts from prestigious institutions such as University College in London and the Straus Center at the Harvard Art Museum. Their mission: to unlock the secrets held within these coffins through meticulous documentation and study.

But what makes this undertaking truly captivating is the revelation that there are no bodies or mummies within the coffins. Instead, exquisite paintings adorn the wooden structures, belonging to individuals named Pa-di-mut, Ankh Khonsu, and Mut iy-iy. As the lids are gingerly lifted, ancient hieroglyphs and hidden images emerge, providing tantalizing glimpses into a long-forgotten world. This groundbreaking research not only fuels the passions of Egyptologists worldwide but also presents a transformative opportunity to enhance museum experiences, offering unprecedented access and learning tools for scholars and visitors alike.

Top image: Egyptian coffin. Source: George Bailey / Adobe Stock.

By Robbie Mitchell

 
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Robbie

I’m a graduate of History and Literature from The University of Manchester in England and a total history geek. Since a young age, I’ve been obsessed with history. The weirder the better. I spend my days working as a freelance... Read More

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