Experimental and Applied Studies for the Conservation Treatment of Archaeological Mummies

Mummification is considered one of the most important sciences in ancient Egypt. Accordingly, various techniques and materials have been used in mummification processes throughout ancient Egyptian periods, and many aspects of deterioration that are found in Egyptian mummies in museums and storehouses may reflect uncontrolled environmental factors, including relative humidity, temperature, light, and pollution. This study aims to isolate and identify microorganisms from archaeological mummies, and to evaluate the effect of identified microorganisms on mummy components (cellulose, pectin and protein) and mummification materials; and to apply some conservation treatments on archaeological mummies. To achieve this study, an experimental study was started by preparing new mummified rats with the application of the mummification technique used in the New Kingdom in ancient Egypt. Microorganisms were isolated and identified from mummies after storage and were detected in various locations and under various conditions. The effects of some identified microorganisms on mummification materials were then tested using microscopy, X-ray radiography, and microorganism identification, and conservation methods, including disinfection, cleaning, consolidation, and completion of missing parts, were performed on archaeological mummies at the Museum of the Faculty of Archaeology, Cairo University. The present data show that most mummification materials are resistant against the microorganisms isolated from archaeological mummies. All conservation methods maintained the aesthetic value of the mummies.