CLOSE MENU

Fish mummy

Fragment of a fish, probably a Nile barbel based on the fragmentary remains. It does not seem to have been preserved with salt or natron; if it was, very little was used. It is unique in bearing an inscription in hieratic on the scales, like a tattoo, and might suggest that this fish played a role in a medico-magical practice. This ran along the length of the fish, but oriented vertically from the head to the tail, rather than horizontally. Only a small portion survives.

Provv. 6119
Organic animal+plant fiber / Linen
Unknow date
Unknown, 1824
Not on display
Museo Egizio