Skip to main content

The Folger will be closed all day on Saturday, April 26, for the Folger Gala. Additional building closures are scheduled this week. Learn more

The Stuart and Mimi Rose Collection /

Egyptian Book of the Dead

Item 1A

Egyptian Book of the Dead

100 BCE
Manuscript
Papyrus

This book was designed to be placed in the grave of a woman named Ta-er-pet at Akhmim, a city in Upper Egypt on the east bank of the Nile, in the first century BC, to accompany her on her journey to the afterlife. The ancient Egyptians’ view of the afterlife was of a world very like their own. They produced elaborate prayers, hymns, and magical spells to assist the dead in their transition to a good afterlife.

A detailed papyrus artwork featuring two Egyptian figures. On the left is a human figure, while the right figure has a human body with a jackal head. Both are adorned in traditional garments, shown in a sideways profile, engaging with each other. Hieroglyphics are present along the edges.
Photo by Gary William Ogle
Ancient Egyptian papyrus showing scenes from the afterlife. Figures include Anubis weighing a heart against a feather, Thoth recording results, and Ma'at with outstretched wings. Seated Osiris holds a scepter. Hieroglyphics and rows of smaller human figures across the upper part.
A detailed depiction of a scene from an ancient Egyptian papyrus. Five tall, slender figures with animal and human heads stand in a row. Hieroglyphic text surrounds and intersperses the figures. The artwork is characterized by its rich golden-brown tones and intricate linework.

What will you discover next?

Isidore of Seville Etymologiae
An old, open book showing a page with text in Latin. The text is in brown ink and includes large, ornate initials in red and blue. The letter

A printed copy of an old manuscript?

Go To Item 5A

Tibetan Buddhist Scroll
A richly detailed monochrome illustration on aged parchment depicts a central, seated Buddha surrounded by numerous disciples and ornate cloud motifs. The image features intricate line work and varied postures of the figures, giving a sense of reverence and spirituality.

Another scroll?

Go To Item 6D

Return to Rose Collection
A vibrant, symmetrical collage features historical black-and-white photographs of three individuals encircled with colorful floral patterns. The background is filled with intricate designs of butterflies and geometric shapes in shades of teal, coral, and beige.

Return to the Rose Collection