Mummified infant, Egypt, 2000-101 BCE

Mummified infant, no provenance, Egyptian, 2000-101BCE (see note).

Mummification was a complicated burial process common in ancient Egypt. First the internal organs were removed, apart from the heart, which was considered to be the seat of the mind and the emotions. The lungs, liver, intestines and stomach were placed in separate canopic jars, to be buried with the body. The body was then dried with natron for forty days. Once dried the fingers, toes, arms and legs were wrapped individually. The whole body was then wrapped in cloth with amulets and items to help the deceased see, hear, speak, taste and eat in the afterlife.

Details

Category:
Classical & Medieval Medicine
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A634914
Materials:
human remains and linen (textile)
Measurements:
overall: 480 mm x 125 mm x 97 mm,
overall (lying flat): 95 mm x 480 mm x 120 mm, .82 kg
type:
human remains and mummy
credit:
Wellcome Trust