Egypt is displaying digital remains of the mummy of Pharaoh Amenhotep I for the first time since its discovery in 1881.The researchers used digital three-dimensional (3D) imagery to display the figure of the Pharaoh. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities said the research was led by a Cairo University professor of radiology and Egyptologist Zahi Hawass.
"Saleem and Hawass used state-of-the-art X-ray technology, computed tomography (CT) scans, and sophisticated computer software programs to digitally open Pharaoh in a safe, non-invasive method without touching the mummy," the ministry said in a statement.
A tomography scan revealed Pharaoh died at the age of 35. According to observers, Amenhotep I was the first pharaoh to be mummified with crossed arms and brain not removed from the skull. Meanwhile, the mummy found in Luxor, Southern Egypt is the only mummy that has not been unrolled by archaeologists. This was done to preserve the mask and the surrounding wreaths. The nearly identical technical method of opening the mummy also reveals evidence of a harem conspiracy when Ramsess III was slashed in the neck. Dr Sahar said the fact that Amenhotep I had very fine teeth was a testament to how amazing he was. mummification process. Not only are the teeth preserved, even the small bones in the ear are preserved.
“The mummy's body is well preserved. Undoubtedly, Amenhotep I's teeth are well preserved. Many royal mummies had bad teeth, but Amenhotep I had good teeth," he said.
The research team has found the brain of Amenhotep I was intact, unlike other Egyptian kings including Tutankhamun and Ramses II.
"His organs have been removed from the mummy, but not the brain or heart," added Dr Sahar Saleem.
In the mummy wrapping the body of Amenhotep I wore 30 amulets and a unique gold bodice with gold beads. Researchers hope to find evidence of how Amenhotep I died for further research. "We did not find any injuries or disabilities due to the disease that caused his death," said Dr Sahar Saleem.
From the results of this scan, scientists got a detailed description of the figure of Amenhotep I. Dr Sahar Saleem said, Amenhotep I had a narrow chin, small nose, and curly hair. Physically similar to his father, Ahmose I.
“Amenhotep, I seem to be physically similar to his father. He has a narrow chin, a small narrow nose, curly hair and slightly protruding upper teeth," said Dr Sahar Saleem.
Amenhotep I was the second king of the 18th dynasty and ascended the throne after the death of his father, Ahmose I. The name Amenhotep means "Delightful Leader." His throne name was Djeserkare – “Holy Spirit Lord Ra.” He ruled peacefully and concentrated on administrative organization and temple building. He probably ruled together with his mother, Ahmose-Nefertari.
You must be logged in to post a comment.