This highly decorated mummy of a ram is a unqiue representation of ancient Egyptian animal cult practice. The specimen, dated to around 2000 BCE, originates from the New Kingdom period (1550-1069 BCE), noted for the increased occurrence of animal cults.
The artifact showcases a mummified form of a domestic ram, symbolically linked to Khnum, the Egyptian god of fertility and water. Measuring approximately 90 cm high and 170 cm long, the mummified ram is expertly encased in linen bandages of pale yellow, reflecting the meticulous method of mummification and preservation techniques used in ancient Egypt.
Lying on its right side, the ram's posture also incorporates a spherical entity, interpreted as a sun disc connected to the sun god, Aten. This inclusion offers insight into the religious ideas of the period. Notably, the skull area is carefully molded to depict the ram's horns, maintaining anatomical accuracy.
Radioisotope dating and CT scans have verified the artifact's age and provided a deeper understanding of animal mummification procedures during this era; this includes removal of internal organs and the brain, salt drying, and stuffing to retain body shape. The legs' placid arrangement implies a peaceful representational context contradicting its symbolic implications.
The impressive embalming process indicates the belief in animal ascension to the afterlife, echoing human funerary customs. Patterned amulets and talismans decorate the bandage wrappings, indicative of the high status accorded to select domestic animals within Egyptian society.
