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

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

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Mummification describes how through which the body of a deceased person can be preserved. This method of keeping bodies intact may happen naturally or be carried out by humans. Natural mummification occurs in certain environments, such as freezing temperatures, high acidity, or dry climates. One of the most famous forms of intentional mummification originated in Egyptian history, where corpses were wrapped in bandages to preserve their bodies and keep the body for the journey to the afterlife.

Mummies, including humans and animals, have been found on every continent, often because of natural preservation or cultural practices. Throughout Egypt, over one million animal mummies have been found, including a large number of cats. The method of mummification in ancient Egypt was highly ceremonial. Egyptians would extract the brain through the nose, and removed all major internal organs, leaving only the heart. This was due to the belief that the heart was central to the ceremony in the afterlife. The other organs were placed in canopic jars, which were included in the burial.

In modern times, mummification has evolved into a new practice as part of certain BDSM subcultures. Here, the practice of wrapping the body 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 materials used for this wrapping range from duct tape, plastic wrap, to bandages. Though the activity is still called mummification, in the BDSM context is focused on controlling the body instead of preserving the body.

**To conclude**

Mummification has transformed from its beginning in early death rituals to present-day practices within BDSM subcultures. Although its original intention focused on preserving the body for the journey to the next life, the modern interpretation focuses on power dynamics. Despite the differences, both forms of mummification reflect a deep human interest in control, whether over death or in controlling others.