When The Mummy Returns

After decades of careful conservation at Cardiff University, an ancient Egyptian coffin that has crisscrossed Wales is to go on public display.

The 26th Dynasty coffin, which dates to 650BC, was brought to the UK in a collection, before being gifted by Aberystwyth University to Swansea University’s Egypt Centre.

By studying the style of decor and its heiroglyphs, egyptologists can reveal much of the past of such magnificent objects.

They've discovered that the elaborately decorated coffin was the last resting place of not one, but 2 people.

It first was made for Ankh-pa-khered, before being repurposed for Djedhor – both men. But there was more to the story.

When the coffin arrived on British shores, it was examined by experts at the British Museum. Bought as part of The Wellcome Collection, it now held a female mummy!

Made of wood, plaster and textiles, dry conditions in Egypt mean it has survived for more than 2,000 years. But it was in a sorry state when it arrived at Cardiff for conservation 25 years ago.

Under the expertise of conservation experts, a quarter of a century of conservation graduates trained on this beautiful artefact. Those Cardiff University alumni, over 50 of them, are now working in museums and with collections world-wide.

Watch this explainer video.

Reader in Conservation Phil Parkes said:

“Now returning for public view at The Egypt Centre at Swansea University, we're proud of playing our part in conserving this enigmatic piece that makes ancient civilizations come to life.”

After its many journeys, the ancient coffin will help tell the story of ancient Egypt at the House of Death gallery at the Egypt Centre.