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The Unexpected Aroma of Egyptian Mummies

Initial perceptions of mummies often evoke a sense of repulsion, conjuring images of ancient corpses. However, a recent scientific investigation reveals a surprising olfactory discovery: well-preserved Egyptian mummies emit quite pleasant scents.

Dr. Cecilia Bembibre from University College London emphasizes this unexpected finding, noting, “In popular culture, the consequences of encountering mummified bodies are usually dire. We were intrigued to discover that their scents were indeed enjoyable.” The researchers characterized these aromas as “woody,” “spicy,” and “sweet,” with hints of floral notes likely stemming from the resins, such as pine and juniper, employed during the embalming process.

This study, published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society, utilized both chemical analysis and trained odor assessors to evaluate the fragrances emitted from nine ancient mummies, some dating back an impressive 5,000 years, which were collected from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.

According to Bembibre, the motivation behind this research stemmed from a longstanding public and scholarly fascination with the scent of mummies. “Archaeologists, historians, and even writers have often incorporated the subject into their work, seeking to understand more about it,” she stated.

Aromas of the Afterlife

The significance of scent in the mummification process was profound, as oils, waxes, and balms were integral to preserving the body for the afterlife. This practice was primarily reserved for the elite, with pleasant fragrances symbolizing purity and divine connections, while foul odors indicated decay and corruption.

Without invasive sampling of the mummies—an approach that could compromise their integrity—the research team from University College London and the University of Ljubljana in Slovenia effectively analyzed odors linked to the mummies while also considering other potential sources, such as conservation materials or microbial deterioration.

Matija Strlič, a chemistry professor at the University of Ljubljana, expressed relief that their analysis revealed no signs of decay. “Initially, we feared we might detect notes indicative of decomposition,” he admitted. “Fortunately, this was not the case, indicating that the preservation conditions in the museum are quite favorable.”

Insight from Scent

The innovative use of technical equipment to assess air particles emanating from the sarcophagi represents a significant milestone in archaeological research. Strlič remarked, “This approach allows us to infer the social status of a mummy, ultimately providing crucial insights to conservators, curators, and archaeologists alike. Its implications could prove valuable for various museum collections.”

Barbara Huber, a postdoctoral researcher at the Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology in Germany, who did not participate in the study, noted that these findings highlight essential compounds that could either help preserve or degrade ancient remains, offering potential strategies for better protecting these treasures for future observation.

Temporal Transformation of Scent

However, Huber cautions that the scents identified in the study are not necessarily reflective of the aromas present during the time of mummification. “Over millennia, factors such as evaporation, oxidation, and conservation conditions have drastically altered the original scent profiles,” she explained.

Previously, Huber’s work delved into residues from containers that held mummified organs, focusing on the ingredients used in embalming and their implications for ancient trade routes. This collaboration led her to partner with a perfumer to recreate what is termed “Scent of Eternity,” designed to enhance exhibitions at the Moesgaard Museum in Denmark.

Researchers involved in the current study aspire to similarly create “smellscapes” based on their findings, which might significantly enrich the museum experience for visitors. Dr. Bembibre remarked, “Museums are often referred to as sterile spaces, emphasizing visual engagement over sensory experiences. Observing mummies sealed behind glass diminishes the immersive aspect; scent could forge a more substantial connection to the mummification process and enhance our understanding of ancient cultures.”

Source
phys.org