Museum Covers Egyptian Mummy, Sparking Debate on Display of Human Remains
Glasgow's Hunterian Museum has covered the remains of Lady Shep-En-Hor, a decision following similar actions at another city museum and igniting controversy.
The Hunterian Museum in Glasgow has covered the remains of an Egyptian mummy, known as Lady Shep-En-Hor, which had been on public display for over 200 years. Museum officials stated the decision was made to grant the ancient individual privacy in death. The mummy is now concealed by a conservation-grade textile-like material, though her sarcophagus remains visible.
This move follows a similar decision by Glasgow Life, an arts organization funded by Glasgow City Council, to remove Egyptian human remains from display at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Glasgow Life cited ethical concerns and the absence of documented consent from the deceased as reasons for the removal. Items taken from display at Kelvingrove include a painted coffin containing the remains of the priest Nekht, a mummified male head, a mummified right hand, and a mummified foot.
The Hunterian, part of the University of Glasgow, has adopted a policy against displaying human remains originating outside the UK. Lady Shep-En-Hor's remains have been part of the Hunterian's collection since 1820.
Historians and public figures have expressed varying opinions on the matter. Sir Tom Devine, Emeritus Professor of Scottish History at the University of Edinburgh, argued that displaying mummies is not ethically problematic as long as the remains are treated with respect and displays are managed by qualified personnel. Conversely, Reform UK Scotland MSP Jamie Langan criticized the decisions as "woke madness," suggesting that parts of the heritage sector are driven by progressive agendas rather than historical preservation.
National Museums Scotland has stated it has no current plans to remove its displays of human remains, including mummified individuals, emphasizing that such remains are curated sensitively.
The controversy highlights a broader debate within the museum community regarding the ethical display of human remains, particularly those from ancient cultures, and the concept of consent and respect for the deceased in contemporary exhibition practices.