Fragments, Bitumous material (4 samples)
Country
Egypt
Object detail
Description
Fragmented sample of fine black particles, said to be bitumen. Possibly a portion of natural asphalt or bitumen from the Dead Sea. Possibly related to E40060.
Classification
ARCHAEOLOGY Egyptian
Production place
Measurements
Variously sized small particles.
Media/Materials description
Petroleum bitumen (natural asphalt)
History and use
Mummification was undertaken in ancient Egypt for over 3000 years, after observing bodies preserved naturally via natural dessication. Mummification was required for more humid tomb burial environments. Also known as mummia, mumia, and pitch, this black substance is a natural asphalt / bitumen, the source for most of which was the Dead Sea. It was one component of balms used in preparations to mummify the deceased in Egypt. Bitumen was used increasingly from the New Kingdom, and peaked in use in Ptolemaic and Roman period mummies. Mummification became more common across social classes and age groups from the Third Intermediate Period.
Registration number
E40065
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