Art, Meds, and Fuel—The Surprising Historical Uses of Ancient Mummies

It was not too long ago that mummies were used in unconventional ways—as drugs, as entertainment, and perhaps even as fuel.
Art, Meds, and Fuel—The Surprising Historical Uses of Ancient Mummies
A file photo of an Egyptian mummy. Shutterstock*
Liz Leafloor
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Mummies are a familiar image in modern Western culture, sometimes silently resting in glass museum cases, or other times shuffling along on two cursed feet, moaning and draped in ragged linens in Hollywood films. Mummies, unlike other human remains, are even now regarded as special, exciting artifacts. However, it was not too long ago that mummies were used in unconventional ways—as drugs, as entertainment, and perhaps even as fuel.

Although mummies can be found on every continent all over the world, they’re often associated with ancient Egypt. Early sources of the preserved remains of humans and animals were grave robbers, who plundered tombs and burial sites, searching for gold, jewelry, and valuables. Sometimes the bodies would be sold as they gained mystique and value.

In the early 19th century, archaeological science was in its infancy, but expeditions became very popular following Napoleon’s campaign into Egypt and Syria. Scientific excavations in Egypt were well intentioned, but not always headed by scholars or experts, and were often opportunistic digs by rich, curious amateurs. This resulted in sites, artifacts, and knowledge being damaged or destroyed. Medical dissections of mummies were more theater than forensics.

The Egyptian Expedition under the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte. Léon Cogniet, early 19th century. (Public Domain)
The Egyptian Expedition under the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte. Léon Cogniet, early 19th century. Public Domain
Liz Leafloor
Liz Leafloor
Author
Liz Leafloor is an Editor, Writer, Blogger and Designer based in Canada. Having worked in online media for years, Liz covers exciting and interesting subjects like spirituality, history, science, archaeological discoveries, life and death, and the unexplained. She is an editor for popular archaeology and history site Ancient-Origins, and contributing blogger for international news media organization Epoch Times.
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