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Canopic Jars

Canopic Jars

Other On Display

Canopic jars exemplify the ancient Egyptians' beliefs in the afterlife and the importance of preserving the body for eternity. They also reflect the sophisticated religious iconography and the Egyptia...

Era: Old Kingdom to Ptolemaic Period
Current Location: {'major_collections': ['Egyptian Museum, Cairo', 'British Museum, London', 'Louvre Museum, Paris', 'Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York']}
Materials:
Limestone Alabaster Pottery Wood Precious metals (in royal burials)
Research Confidence:
(100%)

About Canopic Jars

Canopic jars were vital to the mummification process in ancient Egypt, used from the Old Kingdom through the Ptolemaic Period. These jars were designed to hold the liver, lungs, stomach, and intestines of the deceased, each protected by a lid featuring one of the four sons of Horus.

Historical Significance

Canopic jars exemplify the ancient Egyptians' beliefs in the afterlife and the importance of preserving the body for eternity. They also reflect the sophisticated religious iconography and the Egyptians' understanding of human anatomy.

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Physical Details

Dimensions:
Materials:
Limestone, Alabaster, Pottery, Wood, Precious metals (in royal burials)

Quick Facts

Type:
Other
Era:
Old Kingdom to Ptolemaic Period

Where to See It

🏛️
{'major_collections': ['Egyptian Museum, Cairo', 'British Museum, London', 'Louvre Museum, Paris', 'Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York']}
Currently on Display