1880s Egyptian Mummies, Sarcophagi, and Tomb Artifacts – Mizraim Chromolithographs
DESCRIPTION
This group of plates illustrates a fascinating range of Egyptian funerary objects and archaeological discoveries connected with burial practices and the cult of the dead.
The images include architectural details of tomb structures near the pyramids of Giza, elaborately carved sarcophagi, animal mummies associated with temple rituals, and striking anatomical studies of preserved human remains. The plates provide a vivid visual record of nineteenth-century archaeological interest in Egyptian mummification, burial rituals, and the material culture of the afterlife.
These plates were published in the late nineteenth century in Samuel Augustus Binion’s monumental Egyptological work Mizraim: The History, Religion, Learning and Antiquities of Ancient Egypt. Produced during a period of intense European and American fascination with Egyptian archaeology, the plates were printed as finely detailed chromolithographs and engravings to reproduce the artifacts and monuments discovered by early expeditions.
Case and Mummy in its Cerements
This plate shows both the decorated outer coffin and the wrapped mummy within. The richly colored sarcophagus features intricate hieroglyphs and symbolic imagery intended to guide the deceased safely into the afterlife.
Profile and Face of a Mummy (Man)
Two studies of a male mummy show both profile and frontal views of the preserved head. The haunting realism reflects the fascination of nineteenth-century scholars with the physical remains of ancient Egyptians.
Profile and Face of a Mummy (Woman)
A companion plate presenting the preserved head of a female mummy from both profile and frontal perspectives. The rendering provides a remarkably intimate look at an individual who lived thousands of years ago.
Mummies – Head of a Woman, Head of a Cat and Other Embalmed Animals
A striking composition combining human and animal remains illustrates the diversity of embalming practices in ancient Egypt. The detailed renderings reveal preserved skin, skeletal structure, and wrapping techniques.
Thebes – The Mummies and Fragments of a Crocodile, Serpent and Dog
Fragments of several animal mummies are displayed, including crocodile and serpent remains. These animals were often associated with particular deities and were preserved as offerings within temple sanctuaries.
Thebes – Mummies of Birds
Detailed anatomical drawings show the skeletal remains and wrapped bodies of mummified birds. The illustrations highlight the scientific curiosity of nineteenth-century researchers studying Egyptian burial practices.
Thebes – Mummies of Ibis and Fragment of Jackal
This plate illustrates sacred animal mummies, including ibis remains associated with the god Thoth. Such votive animal burials were commonly deposited in temple complexes throughout Egypt.
Gizeh – Details of a Tomb on the East Side of the Great Pyramid
This architectural plate presents measured drawings and structural details of a tomb complex located near the Great Pyramid at Giza. Cross-sections and elevations reveal the design of the burial chamber and entrance architecture.
Sarcophagus of Menkaura and Sarcophagus of Ai
Two finely rendered sarcophagi are shown, including the tomb chest attributed to Pharaoh Menkaura, builder of the third pyramid of Giza, and another decorated coffin associated with the Eighteenth Dynasty pharaoh Ay. Both examples demonstrate the elaborate symbolism and hieroglyphic ornament used to protect the deceased.
CONDITION
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