2025 Poster Session

This study focuses on the conservation and reassembly of a pottery coffin dedicated to Khonsu, the ancient Egyptian moon god, dating back to the 17th Dynasty of the Middle Kingdom. Originally housed in the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir and now part of the Grand Egyptian Museum, the coffin is a significant artifact reflecting the religious and cultural practices of its time.The coffin, consisting of a body and a lid, is painted white with yellow lines and hieroglyphic inscriptions of Khonsu's name. Initial assessments revealed that while the body was largely intact, the lid had broken into two pieces and showed signs of previous, inadequate restoration efforts.A comprehensive analysis using XRF, XRD, and microscopic examination was conducted to understand the material composition and to document the condition of the coffin. The conservation process began with mechanical and chemical cleaning to remove surface dirt and calcifications, followed by the removal of old adhesive residues from prior restoration attempts.The fragile edges of the broken lid were carefully consolidated to prevent further deterioration. The lid was then reassembled, ensuring a precise alignment of the fragments. Adhesives compatible with the original pottery were used to maintain the coffin's structural integrity while adhering to modern conservation standards.This project exemplifies the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration in cultural heritage preservation, combining scientific analysis, historical research, and conservation expertise. The restored coffin is now exhibited at the Grand Egyptian Museum, contributing to a deeper understanding of ancient Egyptian burial practices and the significance of Khonsu in their spiritual life.