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Ibis Mummy

Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art

Though both of these mummies originally had elaborate wrappings, it is impossible to predict from the wrappings exactly what lies inside the package. CT scans and X-rays reveal that one ibis is complete and the other mummy contains feathers but no skeleton. The fragmentary one might represent a corrupt practice that cheated the worshipper of a complete animal.

The mummy decorated with a herringbone pattern is complete.
CULTURE Egyptian
MEDIUM Linen, feathers or reeds
  • Reportedly From: Saqqara, Egypt
  • DATES 664–30 B.C.E.
    DYNASTY Dynasty 26, or later
    PERIOD Late Period to Ptolemaic Period
    DIMENSIONS 4 1/8 × 3 1/2 × 12 5/8 in. (10.5 × 8.9 × 32.1 cm)  (show scale)
    ACCESSION NUMBER 37.2042.18E
    CREDIT LINE Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund
    CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION The mummy contains feathers or reeds and other unidentifed materials.
    MUSEUM LOCATION This item is not on view
    CAPTION Egyptian. Ibis Mummy, 664–30 B.C.E. Linen, feathers or reeds, 4 1/8 × 3 1/2 × 12 5/8 in. (10.5 × 8.9 × 32.1 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund, 37.2042.18E. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 37.2042.18E_PS9.jpg)
    IMAGE overall, 37.2042.18E_PS9.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2015
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    RIGHTS STATEMENT Creative Commons-BY
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