Jeanne d's relic 'Arc is a piece of Egyptian mummy?

French Dr. Philippe Charlier
(Photo: futura-sciences)

Researchers have confirmed that the heroine of French hero Jeanne d'Arc stored at a museum in central France is actually pieces of an Egyptian mummy dating back more than 2,000. year.

The results of the study are published by Nature (UK).

For months, about 20 researchers led by French Dr. Philippe Charlier looked at the relics contained in a jar located in the archbishop's court: a human rib covered with a black layer like charred, other bones, pieces of wood and a small piece of cloth about 15cm. All attached a sheet of parchment with the words 'The remains found under the burning frame of Jeanne d'Arc, Orleans' virgin.

The researchers applied X-ray, spectral, microscope, and X-ray analysis techniques to conclude that this was not the remains of Jeanne d'Arc.

Experts on perfumes discovered vanilla smell, the characteristic smell of decomposing corpses, while Jeanne d'Arc was burned alive on the fire. The microscopic analysis revealed the presence of many common kernels used to mummify. Linen fabric with relics is suitable for fabrics of ancient Egypt and has been confirmed by age determination with carbones 14.

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