The museum's mummies: an inside view
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Published on: January 7, 2019
1Department of Pediatric Urology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA.
Abstract:
We applied medical and scientific methodology in a study of the mummies in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, New York, by computed tomographic scanning and other radiographic methods. These noninvasive procedures allow us to "unwrap" these mummies without unwrapping them. This is, in effect, technology transfer of routine diagnostic techniques used in medicine to Egyptology. After this noninvasive information-gathering procedure, the mummies are preserved intact for possible future investigations that may be more sophisticated and more informative. The data are presented and put into perspective by a review of pertinent literature.
Insights
Computed tomographic scanning noninvasively reveals mummy details, transferring medical imaging technology to Egyptology. This preserves mummies for future studies while providing valuable insights.
Area of Science:
- Egyptology
- Medical Imaging
- Archaeology
Background:
- Mummies offer insights into ancient cultures but are fragile.
- Traditional unwrapping methods are destructive.
- Non-invasive imaging can preserve artifacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To apply computed tomographic scanning to study mummies.
- To demonstrate technology transfer from medicine to Egyptology.
- To preserve mummies for future research.
Main Methods:
- Computed tomographic (CT) scanning.
- Radiographic methods.
- Non-invasive imaging techniques.
Main Results:
- CT scanning successfully visualized mummy details without physical unwrapping.
- Medical imaging techniques are applicable to Egyptology.
- Mummies remain intact for further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Non-invasive imaging is a valuable tool for mummy research.
- Technology transfer enhances artifact preservation and study.
- Further research can utilize advanced imaging for deeper insights.
