On Dec. 18, the world’s largest collection of mummies — the exhibition Mummies of the World — returns to The Leonardo. Having already drawn 1.4 million visitors in its previous run, the revamped show opens with new mummies, artifacts, and research materials added from South America, Europe, and Egypt.
“The first presentation of Mummies of the World was one of the most successful exhibitions The Leonardo has ever hosted, and we are excited to welcome its sequel back to Salt Lake City,” says Alexandra Hesse, executive director of The Leonardo. “This exhibition helps visitors connect with the broader human story.”
The updated installation emphasizes how mummies contribute to science and medicine. Highlighted is the renowned 19th-century Burns Collection of medical mummies, historically used for anatomical, pathological, and surgical instruction. For the first time in this exhibition, visitors can also view MUMAB, a modern replica mummified in 1994 using techniques modeled on those of ancient Egypt.
Marcus Corwin, president of American Exhibitions, Inc., notes the enduring fascination with mummies: “People have always been drawn to mummies because they seem to exist between life and death. It’s important to remember these displays represent real people who once lived lives like ours.”
The exhibition opens on Dec. 18 and will remain on display at The Leonardo through March 6, 2016.