Wild crocodiles hunted to make mummies in Roman Egypt: Evidence from synchrotron imaging. (October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Porcier, Stéphanie M.; Berruyer, Camille; Pasquali, Stéphane; Ikram, Salima; Berthet, Didier; Tafforeau, Paul
• Is Part Of: Journal of archaeological science. Volume 110(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-10
• Subjects: Ancient Egypt -- Crocodile -- Animal mummy -- Hunting -- Roman period -- Environment -- Synchrotron tomography; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Archéologie -- Périodiques; 930.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2019.105009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-4403

Abstract

Abstract: An ancient Egyptian crocodile mummy (MHNL 90001591, Musée des Confluences, Lyon, France) dating to the Roman period and discovered at Kom Ombo (Upper Egypt) was analysed through synchrotron multiscale microtomography. Using this advanced technology, the virtual autopsy of the animal was carried out without affecting the bones, flesh, balms and linen bandages. The technique allows for the precise analysis of the specimen's bones and tissue, enabling us to establish the cause of death and the last meal(s) of the animal. From these data, we can conclude that this crocodile was hunted while living in the wild. This is the first evidence for this mode of obtaining animals to produce mummies. With this case study, it is apparent that the praxis related to the mummification of animals in ancient Egypt are more diverse than the current Egyptological reconstruction of that phenomenon. Highlights: Hunting as a source of animals to produce mummies. Highlight to the cause of death and the last meal(s) of a crocodile. Virtual autopsy of a crocodile mummy through 3D Synchrotron Imaging. Diversity of the praxis related to the mummification of animals in ancient Egypt.