The Study and Treatment of Pa-Di-Mut's Cartonnage Mummy Case

Abstract

A 22nd Dynasty (945–730 BC) cartonnage mummy case was studied to identify the materials and methods used in its fabrication and to better understand its conservation requirements. Analysis of the organic and inorganic materials by microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed that traditional Egyptian pigments characteristic of the period were used over layers of calcite ground and linen. Further study aided by x-radiography revealed that prior to insertion of the mummified body of Pa-di-mut, the case was fabricated over a removable mud model. A review of archives from the time of the case's excavation, combined with the examination and analysis, led to the development of a conservation strategy that combined accepted practices of stabilization with passive measures to promote preservation.