The Art and Evolution of Mummification From Ancient Egypt to Modern Practices

The Art and Evolution of Mummification From Ancient Egypt to Modern Practices

Blog Article

Mummification is the process through which the skin and flesh of a corpse can be preserved. This process of preservation can happen through natural means or be performed through human intervention. Natural mummification happens under specific conditions, such as glacial climates, acidic bogs, or arid conditions. One well-known example of intentional mummification comes from Egyptian history, where corpses were encased in bandages to prevent decay and keep the body for the journey to the afterlife.

Mummies, including humans and animals, have been unearthed on every continent, often because of natural preservation or ritualistic preservation. In Egypt, in excess of a million mummified animals have been uncovered, including a large number of cats. The Egyptian mummification techniques was highly ceremonial. Egyptians would extract the brain via the nostrils, and extracted most internal organs, except for the heart. This was due to the belief that the heart was central to the afterlife rituals. The other organs were placed in canopic jars, which were included in the burial.

In modern times, mummification has evolved into a new practice in certain BDSM subcultures. Here, the concept of mummification is used in a role-playing context, where one person, referred to as the "slave," is bound tightly by another, the "master." Breathing is allowed through exposed nostrils to ensure oxygen flow. The wrapping materials vary from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. While the practice shares the name, its purpose in BDSM is primarily about restraint and control rather than preservation.

**In summary**

Mummification has transformed from its beginning in early death rituals to contemporary practices in alternative lifestyles. Though its ancient goal focused on preserving the body for the afterlife, today's version is about control and role-play. Though these two forms differ, both forms of mummification demonstrate a shared human interest in mastery, whether it is over death or within social relationships.