Marge Simpson Depicted on 3,500-year-old Egyptian Coffin

The iconic cartoon character Marge Simpson appears to have a doppelganger from ancient Egyptian times. 

 

Coffin lids during the New Kingdom era are known for their intricate designs, but this particular cover was remarkable for another reason from the perspective of social media users and fans of the longtime Fox animated sitcom "The Simpsons". 

 

Dr Mustafa Waziri, secretary-general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities of Egypt, said work last year uncovered what archeologists believe were tombs for senior officials and priests in a 3,500-year-old cemetery dating back to the New Kingdom, specifically the 20th Dynasty (circa 1186-1069 BC). 

 

There were amulets, ornaments, as well as stone and wooden coffins with the mummies, according to Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in a press release October 15, 2023, translated from Arabic to English. The New Kingdom period is commonly known as the "Golden Age" of ancient Egypt, according to TheArchaeologist.org. 

 

Although the discovery of the mummy's coffin was announced nine months ago, the image went viral on social media as users pointed out the uncanny resemblance to the beloved matriarch from "The Simpsons". 

 

The upper lid of the coffin has an image of a yellow-hued woman with an extremely tall blue crown, resembling Marge Simpson's outsized blue hair, and a strapless green outfit, similar to the cartoon character's own dress. 

 

The coffin belonged to Tadi Ist, daughter of the High Priest of Djehouti in El-Ashmunein, according to The Egyptian Gazette, described as the oldest daily newspaper in the Middle East. The mummy (photo below) featured a mask and a beaded dress in "excellent condition", the publication reported.

 

The discovery is said to be a significant archaeological find. It not only enriches our understanding of ancient Egyptian burial practices and artistic achievements but also provides a tangible connection to a pivotal period in Egypt's history. 

 

As research and excavations continue, this find will undoubtedly contribute to a deeper comprehension of the complex and fascinating civilization of ancient Egypt.