This paper presents a radiocarbon date of linen from an Egyptian mummified child’s head (MCCM 1921.56). Residual resin was removed using dichloromethane, then the linen was washed with 1M HCl to remove carbonates and oxalates, followed by 1M NaOH rinses to remove humic acids, and finally, 1M HCl desorbed atmospheric CO2 from the specimens. The 14C date obtained was 1825 ± 30 years BCE, falling in the Roman period. Portable X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy was used for elemental composition. These analyses indicated that both orbits were covered with gold foil during mummification. Physical inspection revealed this material extended from the superciliary to the zygomatic arches of the right orbit with a smaller foil overlying the left orbit. Two gold peaks are the most prominent of the elements seen. Iron (Fe) peaks are also conspicuous due to the natron used in the mummification process. Other elements observed are at a relatively low level.
radiocarbon date; Egyptian Roman period; mummy; MCCM 1921.56; pXRF analysis; gold leaf
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