What was the function of a Cooling Board in a funeral setting?

In a funeral setting, the function of a cooling board is specifically designed as a portable table for a corpse. This equipment is typically employed to store the deceased's body temporarily, often in a cooler environment to help delay decomposition until the final arrangements can be made.

These boards usually come with a cooling mechanism or are placed in a cool space to maintain a lower temperature, which is crucial for preservation. The design allows for the body to be easily moved and positioned as needed without causing any distress to the remains, making it a vital part of the mortuary process during times before modern embalming techniques became widespread.

In contrast, a ceremonial altar focuses on religious or memorial activities, preparing the body for viewing involves processes like embalming, and holding funeral flowers relates to decor rather than the direct handling of the corpse. Understanding the distinct purpose of each item in a funeral setting helps clarify their importance in the process of honoring the deceased.