The History of Coffins

The History of Coffins

Coffins, also referred to as caskets, have been used to bury the deceased for thousands of years. The history of coffins is closely tied to the evolution of burial customs and practices across different cultures and time periods.

The use of coffins can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where the pharaohs were buried in ornate sarcophagi. These coffins were often decorated with intricate carvings and paintings, and were seen as a symbol of the deceased’s wealth and status. In ancient Greece, coffins were typically made from terracotta or wood, and were often decorated with images of the deceased and scenes from their life.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, coffins were made from wood and were often covered in cloth or shrouds. The practice of burying the dead in a wooden box was seen as a way to protect the body from decay and to provide a barrier between the living and the dead.
In recent years, there has been a trend towards more eco-friendly burial practices, with the use of biodegradable coffins made from materials such as bamboo or cardboard becoming more popular.

While the specifics of coffin design and construction have varied across different cultures and time periods, the underlying purpose of providing a final resting place for the deceased remains constant. Coffins have played an important role in funeral customs and practices throughout history, serving as a symbol of respect and dignity for the deceased, and providing comfort and closure for the living.

In the 19th century, the funeral industry began to develop, and the use of coffins became more standard. Coffins were typically made from high-quality wood, and were often lined with satin or other materials to give a more luxurious feel. Moving forward, more standard designed coffins and caskets are available as well as customised and personalised coffins become more popular.
Funeral Expo 2022

Funeral Expo 2022

Ashton Manufacturing invite all Funeral Directors to the 2022 Australian Funeral Expo at the Gold Coast Convention Centre on Saturday, 19th November 2022.

The Ashton stand will showcase a range of products by Ashton Manufacturing, including exciting new designs in the popular Expression Coffin range.

Come and meet the Ashton Manufacturing team. And take part in the Great Ashton Putt-Off competition.

For more information please contact Ashton Manufacturing on 1300 263 346 or visit www.afexpo.com.au

RTS Series of videos

RTS Series of videos

Contemporary coffins by Return to Sender

Ashton Manufacturing have just released a series of videos showcasing the beautiful, contemporary Return to Sender coffins.

They are available to view or download on the website’s [Resources](https://ashtonmanufacturing.com.au/membership-join/) section.

Return to Sender are New Zealand’s leading designers and manufacturers of contemporary coffins, catering to the growing number of people looking for less traditional, aesthetically designed coffins with an environmental focus.

Return to Sender’s award-winning coffins are designed to ensure families are able to express what was important to their loved one through their coffin choice.

Return to Sender’s coffins and accessories are available in Australia exclusively through Ashton Manufacturing

Archetype Beech Intro screen*

Fernwood intro screen*

Wayfarer intro screen*

What makes Return to Sender different?

Return to Sender believe in using design principles in support of the environment. A family that values beauty, design, creativity, integrity and nature will find a Return to Sender coffin is the perfect departing vessel.

They use natural materials as much as possible – water-based colours, natural finishes, wool fleece instead of synthetic fabrics, corn starch and leather in place of plastic. Material use is kept to a minimum and clever design features such as timber locking mechanisms, reduce the need for non-decaying fixings.

Furthermore, Return to Sender coffins are part of Ashton Manufacturing’s Memorial Tree Program, whereby a native tree is planted on behalf of the family when they choose one of these coffins. This becomes a living legacy of a family’s loved one and helps in Ashton’s quest to reduce its environmental footprint.

 

New Ashwood Tasmanian Blackwood Coffin

New Ashwood Tasmanian Blackwood Coffin

Introducing the new Ashwood Tasmanian Blackwood coffin

  • Subtle, refined elegance
  • Genuine Tasmanian Blackwood timber
  • A stylish addition for a coffin range
  • Available now

Tasmanian Blackwood timber has a heartwood that is a rich golden colour. Its grain can be straight or feature a wavy, fiddleback pattern, which gives it a distinctive style.

The Ashwood Tasmanian Blackwood coffin is finished with a matt lacquer. This is combined with a modern open grain appearance to allow the natural characteristics of the timber to be showcased.

  • Bold mouldings on the base and under the lid
  • Matt finish
  • Genuine Tasmanian Blackwood timber (MDF/plywood base)
  • Scalloped ends
  • Single-tier lid construction
  • Unique timber grain on every coffin
  • Matching timber bar handles
  • Standard size (internally) L1900mm x W550mm x D325mm

Order the Ashwood Tasmanian Blackwood coffin now on 1300 263 346

ashtonmanufacturing.com.au

2022 National Rugby League Expression Coffin Designs

2022 National Rugby League Expression Coffin Designs

Expression coffins have just released the 2022 NRL team designs.

Officially licensed by the National Rugby League, these Expression Coffin designs capture the passion of each NRL team by depicting club logos and team colours.

The NRL is the embodiment of the very best of what it means to be Australian, the essence of true sportsmanship and the very pinnacle of personal achievement.

A proportion of your purchase of this Expression Coffin is donated back to the National Rugby League who forward your generous donation to Australian charities.

Celebrate the life of a footy supporter with an NRL team Expression Coffin or ashes urn.

 

All designs are available in Standard, Oversize and Ashes Urn

Visit expressioncoffins.com.au to view all NRL team designs and many other designs Expressions have on offer.