The mummy of Queen Nodjmetca, dating back to 1069-945 BCE during the Third Intermediate Period of the 21st Dynasty, currently resides in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Egypt. Queen Nodjmetca, also known as Nodjme, Nedjmet, or Notmit, was a distinguished noblewoman of ancient Egypt, renowned for her marriage to the High Priest of Amun at Thebes, Herihor.
Discovered in the Deir el-Bahari cache (TT320), Queen Nodjmetca’s mummy offers a fascinating insight into the funerary practices and beliefs of the time. The meticulous care taken in her mummification process is evident in the intricate details that have survived the test of time.
One striking feature of Queen Nodjmetca’s mummy is the presence of artificial eyes, crafted from white and black stones. These eyes, along with the eyebrows made of real hair and a carefully styled wig, were intended to provide her with a lifelike appearance in the afterlife. Additionally, her body was embellished with colors to enhance her vitality, and sawdust was used to fill her form.
During the mummification process, Queen Nodjmetca’s heart was left within her body, a reflection of its significance in ancient Egyptian beliefs regarding the afterlife. Intriguingly, hidden amidst the layers of wrappings were a heart scarab and four small figurines representing the Four Sons of Horus, further underscoring the religious customs associated with death and rebirth.
Furthermore, the mummy revealed meticulous attention to detail, with wax covering the embalming wound, as well as her eyes, nose, mouth, and ears. The deliberate preservation of these features highlights the importance placed on ensuring Queen Nodjmetca’s seamless transition into the afterlife.
The discovery and examination of Queen Nodjmetca’s mummy not only offer invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian funerary practices but also shed light on the esteemed position held by individuals such as herself within Egyptian society. As we continue to unravel the mysteries of Egypt’s rich history, the mummy of Queen Nodjmetca remains a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the pharaohs and noblewomen who once graced the sands of the Nile.
