Coffin post Egyptian wood, pigment, date unknown Gift of the Wyoming Historical and Geological Society, 59.22 A, B Hieroglyphic writing in ancient Egypt was a formal form of written communication, used primarily in religious contexts such as temples, monuments, and burial objects and linens. Over 700 symbols or hieroglyphs made up the writing system. These painted posts comprised the corners of a wooden coffin used to house a mummy. They are marked with a hieroglyphic prayer, known as the "hetep da nesu," to Osiris, the god of life, death, and fertility. The prayer establishes that the deceased is worthy to go on the journey to the afterlife, makes offerings to Osiris, and includes magical phrases that will provide all sustenance needed to the deceased.

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