Proposing Holograms as an Innovative Exhibition Technology for Egyptian Mummies

FAIN: HD-51380-11

Milwaukee Public Museum (Milwaukee, WI 53233-1478)
Carter L. Lupton (Project Director: March 2011 to June 2012)

Development of a proof-of-concept for a 3-D high definition holographic exhibit of an Egyptian mummy unwrapping at the Milwaukee Public Museum.

The Milwaukee Public Museum is planning a major exhibition of the ancient history of the Near Eastern and Classic civilizations, utilizing new technologies beyond traditional presentation methods. The Museum is requesting funding from NEH to develop a proof-of-concept for a 3-D high-definition, full color true holographic or holographic-like exhibit of a virtual mummy unwrapping. The Museum will work alongside key experts with experience in medical imaging, mummy CT analysis, and 3-D rendering techniques to research and evaluate breakthrough technologies in visualizations using computed tomography (CT). While CT scanning of mummies is not new, our use of the latest technologies will provide greater clarity, enabling the use of innovative presentation systems. This exhibit will allow visitors not only to learn about mummification but to see, in detail, the various inner elements of the mummy, better understanding Egyptian beliefs and practices.