Trivia Correction: Trivia question #2 answer C has been updated from "Two mummies" to "Four mummies."*
“The record of Abraham and Joseph, found with the Mummies, is beautifully written on papyrus with black, and a small part, red ink or paint, in perfect preservation.” — Joseph Smith1
The Egyptian artifacts Joseph Smith acquired in the 1830s included four mummies2 and at least two ancient papyrus scrolls, which had been advertised and showcased throughout the United States by Michael Chandler. Joseph was particularly intrigued by the scrolls, which were covered with strange writing and curious images. Upon studying them, Joseph declared that they contained writings from the Old Testament patriarch Abraham.3
Despite the high price of $2,400, Joseph believed the scrolls were worth acquiring. He managed to raise the funds with the help of others despite the financial struggles of the Saints at the time. Excitement spread through the Church as Joseph and his scribes attempted to decipher the ancient symbols, anticipating further revelations from the Lord. Lucy Mack Smith and Emma Smith also took a keen interest in the artifacts, exhibiting them to curious visitors and sharing Joseph's teachings about the writings of Abraham.4,5
Now published as part of the Book of Abraham, Facsimile 1 depicts Abraham on an altar (a lion-couch) with a priest attempting to sacrifice him while various Egyptian gods and symbols surround the scene.6 Known as a hypocephalus, Facsimile 2's circular figure represents concepts of eternal life, cosmology, and divine knowledge in ancient Egyptian religion.7 Facsimile 3 illustrates Abraham teaching astronomy in Pharaoh’s court, with figures representing Egyptian deities and symbolic references to royalty.8
* "Reminiscences of the Church in Nauvoo," Millennial Star 55, no. 36 (September 4, 1893): 585
1. History, 1838–1856, volume B-1, josephsmithpapers.org
2. "Reminiscences of the Church in Nauvoo," Millennial Star 55, no. 36 (September 4, 1893): 585
3. Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 20, 219-220
4. Saints, Volume 1, Chapter 20, 220-221