Mummy Bandage, Ii-em-hetep, born of Ta-remetj-hepu

Mummy Bandage, Ii-em-hetep, born of Ta-remetj-hepu

Spell 149, recorded on these bandages, describes fourteen underworld “mounds,” their landscape, inhabitants, and potential obstacles. This knowledge was believed to give power to the deceased and assist his or her transformation. The vignettes represent the geographical location of each “mound” and its properties. For instance, the pig-like creature with a long tail is associated with the fiery mound 12, while the standing hippo-crocodile deity, Hebed-eref (One Who Opens His Mouth), alludes to the watery location of mound 13.

Brooklyn Museum

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