Mummies have always captivated the popular imagination, wrapped in layers of mystery and terror. However, the reality behind mummies goes far beyond such eerie portrayals. Indeed, the mummified remains of humans represent a unique opportunity to personally connect with the lives and cultures of those who lived over three thousand years ago in ancient civilizations. Today, thanks to advanced technologies like computed tomography (CT) scans, scientists have been able to obtain new and surprising insights into Egyptian funerary rituals and the individuals preserved in these mummies.
At the Field Museum, recent scans of mummies have allowed researchers to see beyond the layers of wrappings and funerary cartonnages enveloping these bodies, providing a detailed three-dimensional view of what lies within. During a four-day study, a total of 26 mummies were scanned using mobile CT equipment, generating thousands of X-rays that were then digitally assembled. This technological advancement not only enables visualization of their mummified bodies but also sheds light on aspects of their personal lives and the objects they were buried with, revealing what they deemed necessary to bring to the afterlife.
Dr. Stacy Drake, head of the museum’s human remains collection, noted that, from an archaeological perspective, it is rarely possible to study history from an individual’s viewpoint. This, Drake asserts, provides a unique opportunity to examine not only the tools and artifacts these people created but also the individuals themselves who lived in that era. In fact, the studies conducted at the museum have allowed significant details of some of the most famous remains in their collections to be unveiled, such as those of the enigmatic lady Chenet-aa.
Chenet-aa, a lady who lived in Egypt’s Intermediate Period around 3,000 years ago, represents one of the most fascinating cases for researchers. Her mummified body is preserved in exceptional condition, and through new scans, scientists have been able to determine that she likely died in her fourth decade of life. However, what has intrigued experts most is her unique burial method. Her body was placed in a funerary cartonnage that, at first glance, has no apparent opening. How was it possible to place Chenet-aa inside this structure with no visible seams?
Thanks to tomography, it is now known that the cartonnage was placed using an ingenious process: the body was positioned vertically, and the cartonnage was softened with moisture to be able to wrap it. Then, an opening in the back allowed the body to be inserted, which was later sealed and reinforced with a wooden plate.
This discovery also reveals how the ancient Egyptians took preparations for the afterlife quite literally, ensuring that Chenet-aa had, among other items, artificial eyes to take with her into eternity, demonstrating their belief that every physical detail needed to be complete.
Another prominent figure in the Field Museum’s collections is Harwa, a doorkeeper of the granary of Egypt’s Old Kingdom, who also lived around 3,000 years ago. Scans revealed details suggesting that Harwa led a relatively privileged life: despite his advanced age (at least 40 years), his spine shows no signs of excessive physical strain, and his teeth are notably well-preserved, indicating that he had access to high-quality food. This discovery highlights his social status and his more comfortable lifestyle compared to other individuals of his time.
But Harwa is also famous for his “afterlife” in the modern world. In 1939, he was the first mummy to travel by plane from Chicago to New York, where he was even allowed to attend a Broadway show. After being exhibited at the New York World’s Fair, a logistical error accidentally sent him to San Francisco, granting him the unusual fame of being the first mummy to get lost as luggage.
Harwa’s story underscores the evolution in how museums and researchers view mummified remains. While they were previously treated more as curiosities, today the importance of honoring and respecting these individuals as people with lives, families, and dignity is recognized. Modern tomography provides an intimate perspective of these ancient beings, allowing scientists to discover personal details that humanize their stories and contribute to a deeper understanding of the past.
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