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Modern Science Unravels the Mystery of Egypt's 'Screaming Mummy'

New research reveals high-status mummification practices and proposes a dramatic cause of death for the ancient woman.

The Screaming Woman mummy
Only a few Egyptian mummies have been found with an open mouth. A new study suggests an ancient Egyptian woman whose mummified remains were discovered in the 1930s may have died violently.
The coffin of the "screaming" mummy is on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
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Overview

  • CT scans and chemical analyses indicate the mummy was preserved with luxurious materials like juniper and frankincense.
  • The mummy's organs were left intact, challenging previous assumptions about her mummification quality.
  • Researchers suggest the open-mouthed expression may result from cadaveric spasm, indicating a painful death.
  • The mummy, discovered in 1935, was found with scarab rings and a wig treated with exotic minerals.
  • The findings provide insights into ancient Egyptian trade networks and funerary practices.