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Nesyamun - The Leeds Mummy

Contributed by Leeds Museums and Galleries

The beautifully decorated coffin of Nesyamun, The Leeds Mummy. © Leeds Museums & Galleries

The name Nesyamun means "The one belonging to the God Amun" and would have been a very popular name at the time.From the inscriptions on Nesyamun's coffin and the objects left with him, we can say much about his life. We know from a leather ornament in his bandages that he died in the reign of Ramesses XI, who ruled Egypt 1113-1085 BC. Nesyamun was a priest at the temple of Amun in the Karnak complex at Thebes (modern day Luxor).Nesyamun was a 'waab priest', which meant he had reached a certain level of purification and was therefore permitted to approach the statue of Amun in the most sacred inner sanctum of the temple.
Nesyamun is very important as the only Mummy to have been dated to this period, as well as explaining Egyptian culture. His coffin gives an insight into his daily life and his beliefs and scientific analysis of his remains has contributed to a greater understanding of ancient Egypt. Nesyamun's place in our history of the world is as someone who has passed through it, but who continues to have his name remembered by people today.

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Location
Culture
Period

1130-1080 BC, 20th Dynasty Egypt

Theme
Size
H:
195cm
W:
59cm
Colour
Material

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