The Annual Egyptological Colloquium 2021

The British Museum curates one of the largest collections of mummified remains from the Nile Valley outside Egypt.

Over the past decade, these human remains have been the focus of an intensive programme of bioarchaeological and Egyptological research.

Using cutting-edge CT scanning technology and 3D visualisation software, the Museum has shared some of this research through permanent displays and exhibitions held at the Museum and at international venues. These include Mummy: the inside story (2004), the virtual autopsy of Gebelein Man (Room 64), Ancient lives: new discoveries (2014) and Egyptian mummies: exploring ancient lives (2016–2021).

Despite an extensive body of research, little remains known about many aspects of mummification, particularly how practices varied over time and by region, as well as their cultural and social significance. This event aims to bring together the latest research on embalming, from religious beliefs to practical techniques, using ancient textual sources, scientific analyses and archaeological work.

The Raymond and Beverly Sackler Distinguished Lecture in Egyptology will take place on the evening of 1 September. José Galán will speak about 'The Lives of Others: Dra Abu el-Naga North surface burials'. The keynote closing lecture will be presented by Ramadan Hussein on 'A Saite-Persian funeral parlor at Saqqara: the Saqqara Saite tombs project'. See the programme overview for more information.

To support this event there are the following resources available:

The British Museum is committed to curating the human remains in its collection with care, respect and dignity. The Museum has developed a policy that outlines the principles governing the respectful and lawful holding, display, study and care of human remains in the British Museum's collection.

To attend this online event

Book now to secure your place. You'll be able to select which days you would like to register for via the booking link.

We are hosting these events on Zoom – a free video conferencing system that requires users to register in advance. If you do not already use Zoom, you can sign up using this registration link. The Zoom link will be sent to your email.