David Bridges
Have you ever pondered the intriguing question: What aromas emanate from Egyptian mummies?
A fascinating study conducted by an international team of researchers reveals an unexpected olfactory profile: a blend of woody, spicy, and sweet scents. For those curious about less pleasant odors, such as that of decaying matter, you might want to explore the notorious corpse flower.
The comprehensive research, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, employed a combination of traditional scientific techniques along with trained human “sniffers” to meticulously analyze the scents from ancient Egyptian mummies. This innovative methodology not only enhances our understanding of the iconic mummification process but also underscores the significance of olfactory heritage that has been largely overlooked in historical studies.
While aromas remain invisible to our eyes, they consist of intricate chemical molecules. Strlič and his team employed advanced techniques such as gas chromatography—a method for measuring components in a sample—and mass spectrometry—a technique for identifying chemical compounds—to thoroughly analyze the chemical emissions from nine mummies housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. Additionally, they utilized professional human “sniffers” to assess the quality, intensity, and overall pleasantness of the scents detected.
Through extensive analysis, the researchers were able to classify the origins of the identified smells, determining whether they originated from the ancient mummification techniques, modern conservation products, or potential pesticide residues, as well as the natural decomposition of the bodies. This research was conducted using completely non-invasive and non-destructive methods. Ultimately, the researchers characterized the mummies’ scent as woody, spicy, and sweet, which aligns perfectly with the historical use of myrrh, frankincense, and various tree resins, such as pine, during the mummification process.
“The revelations brought forth by these scents underscore the significance of utilizing our senses to gain a deeper understanding of our history,” stated Cecilia Bembibre, a heritage scientist from UCL and a contributor to the study.
“For the ancient Egyptians, the practice of mummification was a crucial mortuary custom aimed at preserving both the body and soul for the afterlife. This was achieved through a meticulous ritual involving the embalming of the deceased with various oils, waxes, and balms,” explained Ali Abdelhalim, the director of the Egyptian Museum in Cairo and co-author of the study. “Over time, this practice evolved, and identifying the specific techniques and materials employed offers invaluable insights into the historical era, geographic location, and socioeconomic status of the individuals undergoing mummification.”
The researchers discovered that pleasant fragrances were often associated with divinity and purity, while foul odors indicated corruption and, more accurately, decay. This dichotomy reflects the ancient Egyptian beliefs surrounding life, death, and the afterlife.
This innovative research approach has the potential to inspire museums to engage visitors with immersive experiences, such as curated smellscapes. In fact, the research team is now looking to reconstruct the scents of ancient mummified bodies to introduce this unconventional perspective on studying Egyptian mummies while also celebrating a vital aspect of our ancient olfactory heritage.
So, the next time you find yourself studying a topic, consider the power of smell as a tool for discovery!
Daniel Mercer
