Learn the purpose and symbolism behind ancient Egyptian canopic jars, used in the mummification process to preserve vital organs for the afterlife.

In this video, we explore how a set of four painted limestone jars from the Walters Art Museum helps us understand ancient Egyptian religious beliefs about the afterlife. Learn about the four Sons of Horus, how organs were embalmed, and why these jars were essential to Egyptian burial practices.

This video is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about:

• Ancient Egypt

• Mummification

• Ancient Africa

• Global Ancient Art

• Gods and goddesses

• Egyptioan Mythology

• Burial practices and the afterlife

Speaker: Dr. Lauren Kilroy-Ewbank

CHAPTERS

0:00 Mummification in Ancient Egypt

0:16 Canopic jars

0:52 The term canopic and Canopus

1:12 Decorations on the lids and the Four Sons of Horus

1:56 Canopic jars in the New Kingdom

2:19 Canopic chests

2:35 Canopic jars in the Third Intermediate Period

Learn more

1. Check out our entire glossary of art history: https://www.artsq.org/about-key-terms-ideas-art-history

2. Check out all our content about African art, including Ancient Egypt