THE CONSERVATION OF AN EGYPTIAN POLYCHROME WOOD COFFIN FROM LATE PERIOD

Abstract

This paper describes the treatment and conservation of the polychrome wooden coffin for theunknown mummy of the late period that was in Saqqara stepped pyramids` stores. It sufferedfrom aspects of damage represented in damaging into large fragments, infecting by microorganism,accumulation of dusts and cracks that are varied in shapes and sizes in thedifferent layers of painting. The components of the polychrome wooden coffin were studiedthrough investigation and using various analysis methods such as X-Ray diffraction (XRD),Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), light Optical microscope (LOM) and Scanningelectron microscopy with energy-dispersive analysis of elements (SEM-EDX). The resultsindicated that the type of the coffin wood is Cypress (Cupressussempervirens), and there arefive types of fungi that had been grown on it. They are Aspergillusniger, Aspergilusflavus,Alternaria alternate, Emericella nidulans and Penicillium steckii. The ground layers consistedof two layers; coarse layer (clay plaster) and finer coat (lime plaster).The black, pink, andyellow pigments consisted of Pyrolusite, Hematite mixed with Gypsum and Goethiteconsecutively. The medium color was animal glue. Therefore, the current study includedmaking conservation and maintenance of the coffin, mechanical and chemical cleaning,fixation of the paint layer flakes, facing (surface protection), sterilization, reinforcement...etc.

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