A collection of items used for embalming and preparation of a body after death. Preservation of the body after death in the form of mummification originated in South America over 7,000 years ago and was later perfected by the Egyptians.
The modern practice of embalming in the U.S. largely came about during the Civil War with the need to preserve bodies for transport home. Prior to this, preparing a deceased loved one’s body for burial was done by the family at home, making portability of equipment a necessity. These embalming tools exemplify the newly emerging profession of undertakers who provided funeral and burial services including embalming.
