Third Intermediate Period, 22nd to 24th Dynasty, circa 945 to 732 BC.

Wood carved planks and triangular mask, all pegged together to fashion the front of the sarcophagus which was the most essential and most expensive part of the burial process. The sarcophagus kept the body safe and also protected the spirit. There were inner and outer nesting coffins and this flattened example was probably an inner board which was placed right over the mummy. The painted scenes are well worn but legible and consists of a broad floral collar. The vignettes on the front related to keeping the 'Ka' or spirit safe. Below the collar under the separately attached mask. Below that is a winged scarab, and under that, a kneeling Isis wearing a sun disk and extending her protective wings. Below her is the Deity Anubis overseeing the embalming of the decedent. The Sons of Horus are also represented throughput the side panels.

Size 65 inches (165 cm) Length. with a modern plywood backing applied so as to reinforce the panels and to distribute the weight for the hanging wire.

Provenance: Ex Harry Wallace acq 1990s, by descent to DB, New Paltz N.Y.