In a research context, that specimen is known as Unknown woman A.
The team notes that the condition may have prevented the embalmers from closing her mouth as they normally would.
A 2013studyinThe Lancetfound that 34% of mummies from that time showed evidence of cardiovascular disease.
CT scans of the mummy’s head.Image: Sahar Saleem
I believe they are correct, however.
Their explanation makes sense.
In other words, her mouth doesnt seem like it was gaping because the embalmers were lazy.
The Ancient Egyptian ‘screaming mummy.’ Photo: Sahar Saleem
Not all agree, however.
So more forensic studies may be needed, Saleem added.
In addition, more studies of mummies with such screaming facial expression may shed more light on the condition.
Correction: A previous version of this article referred to CIT8 and Unknown woman A as the same mummy.
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