While most people are familiar with the appearance of ancient Egyptian mummies, not many know about how they smell. Thanks to a collaborative effort between researchers at University College London and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the scents of these mummies have been scientifically analyzed. The results, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, reveal a mostly pleasant blend of earthy waxes, oils, and resins.
Understanding the olfactory characteristics of mummies is not just a matter of curiosity. The findings could play a crucial role in the preservation of these historical relics.
Ancient Egyptian mummification techniques were primarily focused on ensuring optimal preservation. These methods, developed over centuries, were influenced by various societal factors at different points in time.
Ali Abdelhalim, director of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and study co-author, highlighted the significance of mummification as a mortuary practice aimed at preserving both the body and soul for the afterlife. The detailed ritual involved embalming the deceased with oils, waxes, and balms, with different techniques and materials offering insights into the individual’s era, location, and socioeconomic status.
Scent played a crucial role in mummification for the ancient Egyptians. Pleasant odors were associated with cleanliness, purity, and even the bodies of deities, while foul smells served as reminders of bodily decay. The combination of a focus on olfactory elements and advanced mummification processes has allowed the aromas of mummies to endure through time.
Matija Strlič, the lead author of the study and a professor at UCL Bartlett School of Environment, Energy, and Resources, emphasized the significance of conducting a combined chemical and perceptual scientific study on the smell of mummified bodies. The research involved a blend of traditional human sensory experience and scientific analysis to catalog the scents.
The scents detected in mummies originated from various sources, including the bodies themselves, archeological objects like sarcophaguses and mummification fabric, and modern additions such as pesticides and conservation products. By categorizing these scents, the research team was able to provide detailed descriptions of each mummy’s smell.
Despite being embalmed thousands of years ago, the mummies were described as having a “pleasant” aroma, thanks to the scented waxes, resins, and oils used in the preservation process. This new knowledge not only enhances our understanding of ancient Egyptian embalming practices but also has the potential to improve conservation techniques for safeguarding mummies from further deterioration.
Looking ahead, the insights gained from this study could pave the way for new museum exhibit opportunities worldwide, incorporating “smellscapes” alongside the visual components to offer a more immersive experience for visitors.
