These photographs show sections of some of the coffins in
the NMS collection. These examples show very well the stylized
representation of the dead person on the outer surfaces.
Anthropoid, or person shaped, coffins were particularly important
to the Ancient Egyptians as they were believed to act as a substitute
body for use after death. This is why the dead person as being
young and powerful to ensure them health in the afterlife. Supplies
and tools for use in the afterworld were often included in the
decoration as well which would magically become usable.