Duaneteref

One of the Museum's sets of coffins belongs to a priest called Duaneteref, and consists of a wooden outer coffin and cartonnage mummy case. These currently form part of a touring exhibition in the United States. Duaneteref’s cartonnage has been in poor condition for many years, and could not be exhibited or safely transported for long distances. At some point the head was damaged by water and incorrectly re-shaped.

Although designed to carry a mummy lying down, the cartonnage was displayed for a long time standing upright, and its feet crumpled under its weight. It needed extensive (and expensive) specialist conservation to restore it to its original shape, and to make it fit for display and travel. The borrowing museums agreed to meet the costs of specialist conservation if the coffin and cartonnage were loaned to the exhibition.

The coffin

Duaneteref’s coffin was made in the shape of his mummified body and inscribed with his name and titles (now much faded). His arms are crossed, copying the pose of Osiris, and his clenched fists grasp pieces of cloth. An elaborate floral collar covers his neck and shoulders.

The cartonnage case

Duaneteref’s body case is made from cartonnage, a mixture of mud-plaster and linen which could be moulded to shape around a mud or wood form. The mummified body was inserted in the back of the case, which was then sewn shut and painted.

The conservation of the cartonnage

A series of images showing the process involved in conserving the Duaneteref coffins. The conservation came about because the coffins are being featured in an exhibition touring the United States. The organisers funded the work in order to make them safe for display.