Strategy for Preservation of Two Romanian Archaeological Wrapped Mummies in Siywa Excavation, Egypt

Abstract

Two historical mummies dating back to the Roman era, discovered in EL-Salam area in Siywa tombs, their length reached to 170cm, preserved in Hall No.6 of the museum store in Siywa. Both of them wrapped in linen rolls but one of them provided with Cartonnage layer (gesso layer of 2cm) were chosen to the study. The mummies showed different aspects of deterioration types. This study aimsto describe these aspects of deterioration; explain the mechanisms of deterioration resulting from investigations through applying different analyses processes (visual assessment, microbiological investigation, scanning electron microscope (SEM/SEM&EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray florescence (XRF), Stereo Microscope (SM)). Finally,apply appropriate restoration and conservationprocedures to the mummies. Theconservation techniques used were Sterilization procedures; Mechanical and chemical Cleaning processes; Completion of the missing parts of the Cartonnage (Jesso/ gypsum layer); Consolidation, Unfolding and mechanical supporting of the weaken parts of linen rolls; The treatment of the Cartonnage layer cracks and fragments of it; and Storage and Display conditions.The results of investigations revealed that the mummies suffered from a degradation of amino acids as well as oxidation and hydrolysismechanisms.The mechanical andchemical cleaning used removed the surface dust and dirt without damage to thecomponents of the mummies.In general, allthe conservation processes of the mummies revealed its aesthetic value again.