X-Raying the Pharaohs

by James E. Harris, Kent R. Weeks

As a result of the ancient Egyptians' efforts to assure continues life for themselves and thanks to a modern tool of physics and medical science--the x-ray--secrets that have lain hidden for thousands of years behind mummy cases and intricate linen wrapings have now been revealed. A fascinating account of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry's examination and analysis of a collection of mummies housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. It is written in non-technical terms and is well illustriated.

Genres: Egypt, Nonfiction, Egyptology, History

Paperback

First published January 1, 1973

Reviews

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful analysis of the "modern" way of examining Egypt's most delicate royal (and not-so-royal) artifacts. Complete with black and white photographs of early scientists and their efforts at delving beyond the mummy masks, this book is rich in detail and insight. You may just begin to want to become a radiologist (or even an odontologist) specializing in Egyptian mummies after you finish with this beautiful book.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although a relatively short book, X-Raying the Pharaohs is an excellent resource. Aimed at the lay person, this book is easy to understand but packed full of information. Each pharaoh x-rayed is briefly profiled and then a summary of the results is given. Some interesting revelations, though reading this long after X-Raying the Pharaohs was published and at a point where these revelations have become well-accepted amongst Egyptologists, these breakthroughs don't have the same impact as when they were originally announced.

[Erik Graff · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a popular, photographically illustrated exposition of the x-ray study of Egyptian mummies conducted by Egyptologist Weeks and dentist Harris. Teeth are the most perdurant part of the human body and the analysis of them and of other bones by means of x-ray examination offers some insight into the physical condition and diets of the ancient Egyptian aristocracy.