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Scientific Test Gets to the Heart of the Matter
Scientific tests on an alabaster Canopic Jar on
display at the Pump Room Museum in Harrogate have revealed that the
black residue inside the jar is cholesterol from human
remains.
The tests were undertaken by Dr Stephen Buckley
of the University of York before the vase went on display in the
current Discover Ancient Egypt exhibition.
Canopic jars were used to store the internal
organs of mummies and it seems this one still has some traces of
human remains inside!
We cannot be sure whose remains they are,
although the hieroglyphic inscription on the jar mentions a priest
called Djediufankh so it may well belong to him.
The scientific tests also show that the alcohol
used to sterilise the body and entrails was date palm wine,
confirming historical reports from the time.
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For further details and an electronic image of the jar, please
contact Diane Taylor, Audience Development Officer at Harrogate
Museums & Arts on 01423 556188.
See the vase and many other Ancient Egyptian treasures in the
exhibition "Discover Ancient Egypt" at the Royal Pump Room Museum
in Harrogate until 4th September 2005.
The Royal Pump Room Museum in Harrogate houses an array of
rare and fascinating Egyptology objects. Many of
these were donated by Benjamin Kent, a local farmer, in
1969.
The Royal Pump Room Museum is open Monday to Saturday 10am
5pm, and Sundays 2-5pm. Admission Adults £2.80 Concessions
£1.70 Children £1.50, Family ticket £7.00 Family
Season ticket £8.50 (includes entry to Knaresborough
Castle).
The Royal Pump Room Museum is operated by
Harrogate Museums and Arts.
Harrogate Museums and Arts is part of the
Department of Community Services,
Harrogate Borough Council