Coffin Fragment Showing Mourning Isis
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Object Label
After Osiris's murder by Seth, Isis and her sister Nephthys mourned the death of the benevolent god-king. Their grieving may be seen as preparation for the god's magical "rebirth." In allusion, the Egyptians hired professional mourners to participate at funerals. It was believed that just as the goddesses helped bring about Osiris's resurrection, so too would the presence of mourners at a funeral help ensure the deceased's rebirth.
Caption
Coffin Fragment Showing Mourning Isis, ca. 664–332 B.C.E.. Wood, pigment, 14 3/16 x 12 5/8 in. (36 x 32 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 37.1992E. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, CUR.37.1992E_wwgA-1.jpg)
Title
Coffin Fragment Showing Mourning Isis
Date
ca. 664–332 B.C.E.
Dynasty
Dynasty 26 to Dynasty 31
Period
Late Period
Geography
Place made: Egypt
Medium
Wood, pigment
Classification
Dimensions
14 3/16 x 12 5/8 in. (36 x 32 cm)
Credit Line
Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
Accession Number
37.1992E
Rights
Creative Commons-BY
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