canopic vase
Definition
Noun: A canopic vase is a specific type of jar or vessel used in the ancient Egyptian mummification process. Its primary function was to contain and preserve the internal organs (entrails) removed from a body during embalming.
Usage
The term is used exclusively in the context of archaeology, Egyptology, and discussions of ancient Egyptian burial practices. It refers to the physical artifact itself.
Examples
- Archaeologists discovered a set of four canopic vases in the tomb.
- Each canopic vase was dedicated to one of the four sons of Horus and held a specific organ.
- The lid of the canopic vase was often carved to represent a human, baboon, falcon, or jackal head.
Advanced Usage
- Canopic jar is a more common synonym. "Vase" and "jar" are often used interchangeably in this context.
- The term is typically used in its plural form (canopic vases) as they were almost always used in sets of four.
Variants and Related Words
- Canopic jar (n.): The most frequent synonym for canopic vase.
- Canopic chest (n.): A box or container in which a set of four canopic vases was placed.
Synonyms
- Canopic jar
- Viscera jar (less common, more descriptive)
Notes on Meaning
This word has a single, highly specific meaning related to ancient Egyptian funerary customs. It does not have modern or metaphorical uses.
Noun
-
a jar used in ancient Egypt to contain entrails of an embalmed body
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