"Resurrecting" famous Egyptian pharaoh from 3,500-year-old mummy

The true portrait of the pharaoh who founded the Valley of the Kings in Egypt has been revealed thanks to modern technology.

Brazilian forensic facial reconstruction expert Cicero Moraes has successfully recreated the portrait of Pharaoh Amenhotep I, the second ruler of the 18th Dynasty of ancient Egypt.

The work is part of a larger project led by paleontologist Sahar N. Saleem of Cairo University (Egypt) and renowned Egyptologist Zahi Hawass, who have “unwrapped” the pharaoh’s mummy in virtual space through CT scans.

The mummy of Pharaoh Amenhotep I is seen in his coffin through CT imaging - Photo: Saleem/Hawass

Using the skull scans as a foundation, Mr. Moraes applied a variety of reconstruction techniques.

This method involves replicating the soft tissue thickness in detail at each location on the pharaoh's head before overlaying external details consistent with data from anthropological and historical studies of Egypt during that period.

Pharaoh Amenhotep I's coffin - Photo: EGYPTIAN MUSEUM

The face that Mr Moraes recreated shows Pharaoh Amenhotep I unlike statues and artworks depicting him, which are shown to be more delicate.

However, this reconstructed face is very realistic, consistent with Egyptian features and exudes the intelligence and authority of the man who brought prosperity and power to Egypt during his reign (1526 to 1506 BC).

Newly recreated portrait of pharaoh Amenhotep I - Photo: Cicero Moraes

The reign of Pharaoh Amenhotep I laid the foundation for the rise of the New Kingdom of Egypt,

He is also credited with founding the Valley of the Kings, the resting place of pharaohs and Egyptian nobles for centuries to come.

Amenhotep I is not only revered for his military achievements, including campaigns in Libya and northern Sudan, but he also oversaw important religious and architectural projects, earning the devotion of his people.

After his death at the age of about 35, Pharaoh Amenhotep I was worshiped as a god and carefully mummified.

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/hoi-sinh-pharaoh-ai-cap-noi-tieng-tu-xac-uop-3500-tuoi-172241004103609429.htm