The artwork, titled “Coffin of Nesmin,” was created by Ancient Egyptian artisans during the period between approximately 200 and 30 BC. This piece belongs to the Ptolemaic art movement and is noted for its symbolic painting and portrait genre. Crafted from wood, plaster, oil, and gold, this coffin is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.
The “Coffin of Nesmin” is a wooden sarcophagus characterized by its tapered shape, with the widest part located near the head and narrowing down towards the feet. The upper portion of the coffin features a worn-out, dark green area, which likely signified intricate designs and decorations that have since faded over time. The overall surface showcases a distressed appearance, marked by patches, scratches, and areas where the plaster has either worn or fallen away, revealing the underlying wood. The natural grain and texture of the wood are visible, adding to the historical and aged aesthetic of the piece. Despite its weathered condition, the craftsmanship of the coffin is evident, emblematic of the rich funerary traditions of Ancient Egypt.
