Mummy plaque of Queen Henuttawy

This golden plaque covered an incision in the abdomen of the queen caused by embalmers removing her internal organs during mummification.

The plaque was supposed to restore the body to its original state of strength as the wound was considered to be vulnerable and a possible entry point for negative forces. The plaque is decorated with the wadjet eye, as the symbol was associated with the idea of physical wholeness and protection.

Mummy plaque of Queen Duathathor-Henuttawy
Mummy plaque of Queen Duathathor-Henuttawy

Third Intermediate Period, 21st Dynasty, reign of Pinedjem I, ca. 1070-1032 BC. Now in the Egyptian Museum, Cairo. JE41586