What shape did coffins change to in the 1800s?

In the 1800s, coffins underwent a significant design evolution, shifting from various shapes to a standardized rectangular form. The transition to a rectangular shape was influenced by multiple factors, including practicality and aesthetics. The rectangular shape allowed for easier storage, transportation, and burial in graves. Additionally, it provided a more formal appearance, which aligned with the era's cultural preferences for funerals.

The rectangular coffin also facilitated the development of standardized sizes, making manufacturing more efficient and cost-effective. This design became widely accepted and has remained the predominant shape for coffins in Western cultures to this day. The other shapes, such as oval, round, or hexagonal, did not gain traction in the same way, primarily due to limitations in practicality and popularity during that period.