A chilling discovery about an ancient Egyptian mummy has revealed the harrowing circumstances surrounding her death.
A study released on Friday delved into the gruesome demise of the so-called "Screaming Woman," who died in excruciating pain approximately 3,500 years ago, resulting in her mouth being left agape in her last moments, according to the Daily Caller.
The mummy, named the "Screaming Woman," was found to have suffered a cadaveric spasm upon her death, a condition where the body's muscles stiffen due to intense pain. This rare phenomenon resulted in her face frozen in a tormented scream. The study provided insights into her life and death, indicating she was about 48 years old at the time of her passing.
Researchers examined the mummification process, which revealed unusual methods. Dr. Sahar Saleem, a co-author of the study, highlighted that "the classic method of mummification in the New Kingdom [circa 1550 to 1070 B.C.] included the removal of all organs except the heart." However, in the case of the Screaming Woman, all organs were left intact, suggesting a unique burial practice.
The embalming substances used were of high quality, including juniper resin and frankincense, typically employed to deter insects and bacteria. Her preserved state, along with her dyed natural hair and wigs, suggested she was of considerable wealth and influence. The woman wore rings and elaborate wigs that further indicated her high status. These indicators of wealth pointed towards a significant societal position, potentially linked to her burial near prominent figures.
Her final resting place was near the tomb of Senenmut, a well-known architect and government official of the time. Given the proximity of their burials, it is speculated that the Screaming Woman might have been closely related to Senenmut. The family ties could potentially explain the luxurious embalming process and burial rituals.
Saleem remarked on the facial expression of the mummy, clarifying that "the mummy’s screaming facial expression in this study could be read as a cadaveric spasm, implying that the woman died screaming from agony." This phenomenon has historically been associated with violent deaths, such as assaults, suicides, and drownings.
Even though it is clear that she died in extreme pain, the specific cause of her death remains unknown. The lingering mystery around her demise has led researchers to consider several possible causes, including assault, suicide, drowning, or severe internal ailments.
The research underscores the significance of the Screaming Woman's unique mummification and burial. Using imported embalming substances and maintaining her organs inside the body indicate the possible importance and wealth of the individual. This method of embalming diverged sharply from the standard practices of her time.
Her ancient remains also demonstrated signs of health issues common in that era. Tooth attrition and joint degeneration were noted, which likely contributed to her suffering. However, these conditions would not alone account for the intense pain captured in her final expression.
The Screaming Woman's story adds a poignant layer to our understanding of ancient Egyptian burial rituals and social hierarchies. The extraordinary measures taken to preserve her body highlight a respect for her status and a desire to honor her in death.
As Saleem noted, the condition captured in the Screaming Woman's death is rare but can occur in various severe and traumatic circumstances. This insight invites further exploration into the exact details of her life and death. What remains clear is that her death was harrowing, and her legacy has been immortalized through both her burial and the recent scientific scrutiny.
The study shines a light on the methods and substances used in ancient Egyptian mummification, expanding our knowledge of their cultural practices. Despite the best efforts of modern science, the exact nature of her final moments remains a mystery, deepening the intrigue surrounding her life and death.
