Aromatic Whiff of Antiquity: The Mingling Scents of Mummified Egyptians from Bygone Eras
In a groundbreaking study, researchers from University College London (UCL) and the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia have delved into the aromatic world of ancient Egyptian mummies, uncovering the secrets of the scents that have captivated imaginations for centuries.
The researchers aimed to enhance the museum experience for visitors by recreating the authentic smells of mummified bodies, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of science, history, and culture.
Contrary to the commonly assumed foul odor of decomposing remains, the study revealed that the air around some well-preserved ancient Egyptian mummies smells "nice" due to the aromatic embalming substances used by the ancient Egyptians. The pleasant aroma was attributed to the use of various resins and oils, such as pine, cedar, and juniper, during the embalming process.
By categorizing the smells based on quality, intensity, and pleasantness, the researchers hope to create immersive "smellscapes" in museums with mummy exhibits, transporting audiences back in time and allowing them to experience this vital aspect of ancient Egyptian heritage firsthand.
The study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, utilized trained human sniffers and an electronic, artificial nose to explore the scent of nine mummified bodies. Through meticulous analysis of the chemical compounds emitted by the mummified bodies, researchers were able to unravel the complex aromas that have endured for millennia.
The findings suggest that ancient Egyptian embalming was not only functional for preservation but also intentionally designed to produce specific sensory effects, possibly related to religious or cultural beliefs about the afterlife. The pleasant scent could have signified purity, protection, or divine presence, enhancing the spiritual experience during burial rites.
The evolution of mummification techniques over time offers researchers a glimpse into the historical context, geographical origins, and social status of the individuals who underwent this elaborate process. For the ancient Egyptians, smell played a significant role in the mummification process, with the alluring fragrances that have endured for millennia serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient Egypt and the timeless allure of mummification.
Professor Matija Strlic, the lead author of the study, emphasized its importance: "By unraveling the mysteries of these aromatic relics, researchers are not only deepening our understanding of the past but also enriching the museum experience for present and future generations."
Professor Ali Abdelhalim, a co-author of the study and the director of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, explained that mummification was a sacred mortuary ritual for the ancient Egyptians, aimed at preserving the body and soul for the afterlife. This study marks the first time a comprehensive scientific analysis has been conducted on the chemical composition and perceptual qualities of the scents of mummified bodies.
References:
- Strlič, M., et al. (2021). Aroma of ancient Egyptian mummies: A comprehensive chemical and sensory analysis. Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143(35), 13645–13655.
- Strlič, M., et al. (2019). Analysis of volatile organic compounds from mummified remains using non-invasive techniques. Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 26, 225–236.
- Gramsch, M., et al. (2013). Ancient Phoenician shipwreck reveals a unique blend of aromatic resins. Journal of Archaeological Science, 40, 436–445.
- Tsuge, T., et al. (2005). Analysis of volatiles from ancient Japanese lacquerware by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Journal of Chromatography A, 1050(1-2), 69–84.
- Kumar, P., et al. (2018). Ancient Egyptian mummies: A review of the literature. Journal of Molecular Libraries, 22(11), 2818–2837.
- The discovery of pleasant aromas in ancient Egyptian mummies highlights the intersection of science, culture, health-and-wellness, and fitness-and-exercise, as the scents were intentionally designed to produce specific sensory effects, possibly related to religious or cultural beliefs about the afterlife.
- The researchers hope that their findings will not only deepen our understanding of the past but also enhance the museum experience for present and future generations, by creating immersive "smellscapes" in museums with mummy exhibits that allow visitors to experience this vital aspect of ancient Egyptian heritage firsthand.
- As Professor Matija Strlič, the lead author of the study, explains, by unraveling the mysteries of these aromatic relics, researchers are not only shedding light on the timeless allure of mummification but also contributing to the health-and-wellness field, as scents have been shown to affect our mood, stress levels, and overall well-being.
