Key Findings from Virtual Autopsy

A virtual autopsy on the 3,500-year-old “Screaming Woman” mummy reveals that her wide-open mouth was likely due to dying in agony rather than poor mummification practices. Advanced techniques showed she was embalmed with costly materials, suggesting she held a significant status.

Possible Cause of Death

CT scans indicated severe atherosclerosis, pointing to a sudden death from a heart attack or stroke. The rigid body and open mouth suggest she wasn’t found immediately after death, allowing rigor mortis to set in.

Comparison with Similar Mummies

Similar “screaming” mummies, like Prince Pentawer, also show different causes of death and burial practices, enriching our understanding of ancient Egyptian mummification.

Historical Context

The study adds to the ongoing research into ancient Egyptian burial practices and the identities of mysterious mummies like Meritamun, daughter of Seqenenre Taa.