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3D Reformatted CT Image of a Ptolemaic
Mummy from Akhmim. CT reconstruction algorithms allow researchers to study exterior textures as well as mummy interiors.
In this case the relatively thin linen bandaging (under 2 inches/5 cm) used on the mummy of a teenage girl "Annie"
reveals facial details beneath. © 2008 Akhmim Mummy Studies Consortium.
All Rights Reserved.
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The Scientific Study of Ancient Egyptian Mummies Mummies are a source of enduring fascination not only as sources of bioanthropological information but in
connection with the study of ancient Egyptian beliefs about resurrection and the technical means of achieving it .
Research on Egyptian mummification is still in its infancy, but is rapidly improving through use of computed tomography (CT)
on Ptolemaic mummies, and those of earlier periods. The mummy CT scan ("cat-scan") is a powerful tool in the quest
for new knowledge about ancient Egyptian views of life and death. The scanning process produces important data sets on ancient
Egyptian people which is archived by the Akhmim Mummy Studies Consortium. The Consortium is involved in ground-breaking forensic
research on the ancient population of the Egyptian city of Akhmim/Panopolis)
as it existed during the Egyptian Late Period and Ptolemaic Eras (525-30 BC). Educational Outreach and Presentations AMSC is dedicated to public education about the ancient Egyptian
mummies and offers a variety of mummy science programs, mummy forensics presentations and science and art exhibitions related
to Ancient Egypt. Please contact Dr. Jonathan Elias, Director, via the links provided, to arrange a talk or workshop for your
school or group or to inquire about AMSC's exhibitions on Ancient Egyptian mummies, mummy science, forensic reconstruction,
the history of mummy-oriented research, and other aspects of the fascinating culture of ancient Egypt.
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Careful Conservation of Mummy Wrappings is
part of the work carried out by the Consortium. Here conservator Mimi Leveque repairs the fine linen cross-bands of an
Egyptian mummy. Comparative study of mummy wrappings increases understanding of Egyptian magical practices
and mummification techniques.© 2008 Akhmim Mummy Studies Consortium. All
Rights Reserved.
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CT reformatted image of Ptolemaic visceral packets. By manipulating CT reconstruction algorithms it is possible
to properly image parts of the body which are difficult to otherwise see. Here visceral packets containing preserved internal
organs are lying in a pool of preservative resin within a mummy's abdomen. Differences in surface texture are currently being
studied.© 2008 Akhmim Mummy Studies Consortium. All Rights Reserved.
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Linen from an Akhmimic Mummy. Spots of resin adhere to the fabric. © 2008 Akhmim Mummy Studies Consortium.
All Rights Reserved.
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3D Reformatted Image showing resin levels in a mummy cranium.
During the Ptolemaic Period at Akhmim, mummies of well-to-do persons frequently show high levels of cranial resin (>30%
infill volumes). © 2008
Akhmim Mummy Studies Consortium. All Rights Reserved.
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AKHMIM MUMMY STUDIES CONSORTIUM P.O. Box 84, Harrisburg, PA 17108-0084 USA
For
information on the Consortium's activities, contact director@amscresearch.com
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