British scientists have used advanced 3D imaging technology to reveal the unusual life and death story of a 2.2m-long crocodile mummified by ancient Egyptians. The study, published in the journal Digital Applications in Archaeology and Cultural Heritage, found the remains of a fish in the reptile’s stomach, which was likely fatal.

Fish caught on the hook: traces of the last supper

Scientists found a fish still attached to a bronze hook in the stomach of a crocodile mummy, suggesting the crocodile was caught fishing and perhaps died from the hook.

3D visualization and reconstruction of the hook

Using X-rays, computer scans, and special software, the researchers were able to virtually remove the hook from the mummy and create a replica. They first printed a model of the hook on a 3D printer and then cast it in bronze using technology similar to that used by the ancient Egyptians.

Mummification of a crocodile: a tribute to the god Sobek

The crocodile mummy, kept in the Birmingham Museum, is estimated to be between 2,000 and 3,000 years old. Mummification of animals was a common practice in Egypt at the time, and crocodiles, sacred animals of the god Sobek, were often subjected to the ritual.

Gastroliths: Evidence of crocodile life

The crocodile’s stomach was also found to contain many small stones (gastric stones). These stones helped the crocodiles grind their food and regulate buoyancy. The location of the gastric stones in the upper parts of the digestive system suggests that the crocodile died shortly after swallowing the fish.

The study of the crocodile mummy not only revealed details of its life and death, but also demonstrated the possibilities of modern technology in studying ancient artifacts. 3D visualization allowed scientists to obtain valuable information without damaging the mummy, and the reconstruction of the hook provides insight into the technologies and materials used in ancient Egypt. Source