A multidisciplinary study of egyptian mummies from the pushkin state museum of fine arts (methodical aspects)

Abstract

We present the results of a multidisciplinary study (the first one in Russia) of nine Egyptian mummies owned by the Pushkin State Museum ofFine Arts (Moscow), carried out at the Kurchatov Institute. A detailed description of the methods is provided. X-ray computed tomography is shown to be a highly informative non-destructive technique for studying the structures of mummies. On the basis of the results, plus the conclusions offorensic experts, a detailed anthropological analysis was conducted. Mummification techniques, sex, and age of all individuals were assessed. In three cases, the sex differed from that indicated in the museum inventory. Morphologically, all crania represent varieties of the Mediterranean type. One individual, however, has typically sub-Saharan features. Pathological changes concern mostly the spine and are both age-related and traumatic. In two individuals, spinal pathologies might have caused death.