Photo/Illutration An image reproduced with computer graphics of how the wooden coffin from a tomb in Asuka, Nara Prefecture, probably looked 1,300 years ago. The replica is on display at the Museum of the Archaeological Institute of Kashihara in Nara. (Toshiyuki Hayashi)

KASHIHARA, Nara Prefecture--The occupant of an ornate stone tomb here 1,300 years ago was buried in an elaborate lacquer-coated wooden coffin with gold fittings, say researchers who used computer graphics for the task.

Only fragments of the coffin, as well as decorative fittings, were found in 1972 during excavation work of the Takamatsuzuka burial mound, which dates back to the late seventh to early eighth centuries.

Almost all of the attention back then was on the murals painted on the interior of the stone chamber, including one called the “Asuka Beauties.” The murals have since been designated as national treasures.

On Dec. 8, the Archaeological Institute of Kashihara unveiled a reproduction of the coffin based on the latest scientific findings using computer graphics.

Institute staff began the project in 2022, which marked the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the murals in the burial mound.

The replica coffin made from cedar planks measures about 2 meters by about 60 centimeters with a depth of about 50 cm.

The exterior is coated in black lacquer while red pigment mixed with traces of mercury was used on the interior.

Gold-copper alloy fittings have been attached to the coffin which sits on a gold-plated lacquer stand.

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