Glasgow museums remove Egyptian mummies over ethical concerns

Two major museums in Glasgow, Scotland, have taken significant steps to remove or obscure ancient Egyptian human remains from public view, citing ethical concerns regarding the lack of consent from the deceased.

At the Kelvingrove Art Museum and Gallery, the remains of the priest Nekht, along with a mummified head, hand, and foot from the Valley of the Kings, have been completely removed from display. The museum's management, Glasgow Life, stated that the decision reflects contemporary museum practices and a desire to show respect to the deceased, noting that there is no documented consent from the individuals or their descendants to be exhibited.

The Hunterian Museum has adopted a different approach by covering the remains of Lady Shep-En-Hor with a special textile to prevent them from being seen by visitors, though her ornate sarcophagus remains on display. This decision follows a review of policies regarding the display of human remains from outside the United Kingdom.

The actions align with updated ethical guidelines from the International Council of Museums (ICOM), which emphasize upholding the dignity of human remains. The move has sparked debate, with some critics arguing that removing such artifacts limits educational opportunities, while proponents maintain that respecting the privacy and dignity of the deceased is a modern museum necessity.