In a remarkable feat of modern technology, the voice of an Ancient Egyptian priest, mummified for over 3,000 years, has been brought to life. Through the use of CT scans and 3D printing, scientists have recreated the nasal voice of Nesyamun, a priest who lived during the time of pharaoh Ramses II. This groundbreaking achievement offers a unique glimpse into the vocal capabilities of an individual long gone, shedding light on the past through the preservation of soft tissues and advancements in technology.
Recreating the Voice of Nesyamun
Nesyamun, a priest who served in the state temple of Karnak in Thebes (modern Luxor) during the reign of pharaoh Ramses XI, was mummified around 3,000 years ago. His remarkably well-preserved remains provided scientists with the opportunity to study his vocal tract using a CT scanner at Leeds General Infirmary. By mapping his throat, mouth, and voice box, researchers were able to recreate a plastic copy of his larynx through 3D printing.
According to the study conducted by academics from Royal Holloway, University of London, University of York, and Leeds Museum, Nesyamun’s voice would have produced a vowel-like sound, resembling something between an ‘a’ and ‘e’ noise. The detailed scans and measurements of the mummy’s vocal tract also revealed that his larynx was smaller than that of a modern individual, suggesting a relatively higher pitch.
A 3D printed replica of the vocal tract of an ancient mummy
Exploring the Ancient Egyptian Voice
The smaller size of Nesyamun’s larynx can be attributed to the stature of Ancient Egyptians, who were generally shorter in height compared to modern humans. With an average height ranging from 5 feet to 5 feet 4 inches, their physical proportions influenced the characteristics of their vocal tract.
The recreation of Nesyamun’s voice involved the use of an electronic larynx, similar to those employed in modern medicine to restore speech for individuals who have lost their vocal function. While the current outcome is limited to a single vowel sound, experts are optimistic that with further advancements, it may be possible to produce full sentences within the next two years.
A Window into the Past
This groundbreaking project not only allows us to hear the vocal output of someone long deceased but also highlights the significance of soft tissue preservation and technological developments in the field of archaeology. Nesyamun’s inscribed desire to have his voice heard in the afterlife, ensuring his eternal existence, adds an intriguing layer to this extraordinary endeavor.
Professor David Howard from Royal Holloway, who initially developed the Vocal Tract Organ for medical purposes, was approached by Professor John Schofield to explore the archaeological and heritage implications of this innovation. The collaboration between science and archaeology has opened up new possibilities for understanding the past and providing a voice to those who have long been silenced.
Through the utilization of CT scans and 3D printing technology, scientists have successfully recreated the nasal voice of Nesyamun, an Ancient Egyptian priest who lived thousands of years ago. This groundbreaking achievement not only allows us to hear the vocal capabilities of an individual from antiquity but also provides valuable insights into the past through advancements in preservation and technology. As this innovative project progresses, it opens up new avenues for exploring ancient cultures and their rich heritage, bridging the gap between the past and the present.