When the discovery of the Rosetta Stone in 1799 unlocked the mystery of the hieroglyphics, scholars were finally able to begin deciphering the curious images found on the many monuments and artefacts of Ancient Egypt.

It soon became apparent that many of the writings associated with tombs and coffins had similarities; with further study revealing the texts to be "messages" designed to assist the deceased as they negotiated their way through the underworld towards eternal bliss.

As the texts evolved over time, many different versions of the writings exist in various forms such as stone carvings and papyrus manuscripts. In 1842 the German Egyptologist, Karl Richard Lepsius assembled a selection of the most common depictions and published them under the title of "The Book Of The Dead".

Document Type

Document Reference

TR02_03

Keyword

Egyptian hieroglyphs

Collection

Aberdeen Local Studies

Magnifier?

Yes

Public Access

Yes

For Sale?