Sarcophagus

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Sarcofago col mito di medea, da roma, vicinanze di porta san lorenzo, 140-150 dc ca. 02

Sarcofago con apollo, minerva e le muse, dalla via appia, 200 dc ca. 01

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Double Tomb of Don Àlvar Rodrigo de Cabrera, Count of Urgell and His Wife Cecília of Foix MET cdi48-140-1-3-4

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Olhares sobre o Museu do Ipiranga 2017 041

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Karin Månsdottir's grave

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Marble sarcophagus with the Triumph of Dionysos and the Seasons 3rd century CE

Sarcophagus refers to a stone coffin, typically adorned with sculptures, inscriptions, and sometimes elaborate carvings. The term originates from the Greek words "sarx" meaning "flesh," and "phagein" meaning "to eat," which together describe a type of limestone thought to decompose the flesh of the dead quickly. Over time, the term came to denote the coffin itself rather than the material. Sarcophagi have been used across different cultures and epochs, notably by the Ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks, serving both as a method of burial and a means to commemorate the deceased.

History and Usage

The use of sarcophagi dates back to the ancient civilizations of Egypt, where they were primarily used for the mummified bodies of pharaohs and high-ranking officials within pyramids or tombs. These Egyptian sarcophagi were often elaborately decorated with inscriptions and paintings that featured religious symbolism meant to protect the dead in the afterlife.

In Ancient Rome, sarcophagi became popular among the elite, with designs that reflected the deceased's life, beliefs, and social status. Roman sarcophagi were typically made of marble and featured intricate reliefs depicting mythological scenes or battles. The practice of using sarcophagi spread throughout the Roman Empire, including to the provinces.

The Ancient Greeks also utilized sarcophagi, although less frequently than the Egyptians and Romans. Greek sarcophagi were often decorated with scenes from Greek mythology and were used to bury notable individuals.

During the Christian era, especially from the 2nd century AD onwards, sarcophagi were adorned with Christian symbols and scenes from the Bible. These Christian sarcophagi played a significant role in the spread of Christian iconography.

Materials and Construction

Sarcophagi were made from various materials, including limestone, marble, alabaster, and granite. The choice of material often depended on the region, the availability of resources, and the status of the individual. The construction of a sarcophagus required skilled artisans and could take several months to complete, depending on the complexity of the design and the hardness of the material.

Cultural Significance

Sarcophagi serve as valuable archaeological and historical resources, offering insights into the beliefs, art, and social structures of ancient civilizations. The decorations and inscriptions on sarcophagi provide information about religious practices, mythology, and daily life of the past cultures.

Preservation and Display

Many sarcophagi have been preserved and are on display in museums around the world, allowing the public to appreciate their historical and artistic significance. The preservation of sarcophagi involves careful restoration and protection from environmental factors that could cause deterioration.

See Also

• Mummy
• Tomb
• Pyramid
• Burial
• Ancient Egyptian funerary practices

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