Mummy removed from exhibition over 'lack of consent'
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The reading
A museum in Scotland has removed the remains of an ancient Egyptian mummy from an exhibition because there is no documented evidence that the deceased gave consent for their remains to be displayed. Glasgow's Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum took away the remains of a priest named Nakht, a mummified male head, and other body parts. In place of the exhibits, visitors found signs explaining that the remains had been removed "as a mark of respect". The museum said the decision "reflects contemporary museum practice". It added: "In the absence of consent, we believe removing ancient Egyptian human remains from display is more respectful to the deceased individuals."
The decision has provoked widespread criticism. Scottish politician Murdo Fraser called the move "woke madness". He argued that museums should showcase history rather than hide it. A museum visitor complained that his daughter was upset at not being able to see the exhibits. An education campaigner said the decision "represents the triumph of educational stupidity and ignorance". He added: "It is not possible to seek permission from those who died thousands of years ago." However, the museum defended its action. It cited the International Council of Museums' Code of Ethics, which says museums "should uphold the inherent dignity of human remains".
Sources:
- https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/kelvingrove-egyptian-remains-removed-consent-nekht-coffin-00103289
- https://www.yahoo.com/news/us/articles/woke-nonsense-museum-slammed-stupidity-131153433.html
- https://www.newsweek.com/egyptian-mummies-removed-from-museum-over-lack-of-deads-consent-12606631
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