Lady Rai, a nursemaid to Queen Ahmose-Nefertari, is one of the most fascinating mummies from ancient Egypt’s early 18th Dynasty. Despite the scarcity of information about her life, her mummy has captured the attention of archaeologists and historians alike. Join us as we delve into the mysteries surrounding Lady Rai and her remarkably preserved remains.
The Discovery of Lady Rai
Lady Rai’s original tomb remains unknown, but it is believed to have been looted in antiquity. Her mummy was later reburied in the Deir el-bahri cache, where it was discovered alongside other notable mummies. Although her outer coffin was preserved, Lady Rai’s body was not found inside it.
The Perfect Example of 18th Dynasty Embalming
G. Elliot Smith, a renowned Egyptologist, described Lady Rai’s mummy as one of the most perfect examples of embalming from the early 18th Dynasty. When Smith unwrapped the mummy on June 26th, 1909, he discovered that Rai was a slim woman, standing at approximately 4 foot 11 inches tall and estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old at the time of her death around 1530 B.C.E.
Unique Features and Discoveries
One of the most striking features of Lady Rai’s mummy is her abundant hair, which appears to be her own rather than a wig. Her hair was styled in tightly plaited braids that reached down to her chest. A single barrel-shaped carnelian bead was found on her right wrist, hinting at the wealth of jewelry she may have possessed in life.
In 2009, a CAT scan of Lady Rai’s mummy revealed that she had a diseased aortic arch, making her the oldest known mummy with evidence of atherosclerosis. This discovery has shed new light on the health and lifestyle of ancient Egyptians.
Conclusion
Lady Rai’s mummy serves as a testament to the skill and dedication of ancient Egyptian embalmers. Through the study of her remains, we can catch a glimpse into the life and times of this enigmatic woman from the early 18th Dynasty. As research continues, we may uncover more secrets about Lady Rai and the fascinating world of ancient Egypt.
