The Crocodile God, Sobek

myminifactory

The ancient Egyptians believed this mummy was the embodiment of the crocodile god Sobek. Measuring nearly 4 meters long, it is encased in resin and features over 25 mummified crocodile hatchlings attached to its back. This display utilizes cutting-edge CT scans to reveal this creature's hidden secrets. Other objects showcase how Sobek was represented both as a crocodile and as a man with a crocodile's head. Animal mummies offer a unique glimpse into the spiritual convictions of ancient Egyptians – the animals could be cherished pets, votive offerings for the gods, or manifestations of the gods themselves. Crocodiles were creatures of reverence and terror – their associations with the Nile meant they were linked to fertility, but their reputation as formidable predators made them feared as killers. This mummy was unearthed at Kom Ombo, a temple and cemetery site approximately 50 kilometers north of Aswan in Egypt, dating back between 650 and 550 BC. Over 300 mummified crocodiles have been discovered at Kom Ombo. The temple there was dedicated to both the falcon god Horus and Sobek, who personified the strength, power, and potency of the pharaoh. CT scanning at the Royal Veterinary College has revealed that some internal organs were removed and replaced with linen packing during mummification. Several fragments of cattle bones, as well as rocks, were also present, likely remnants of the crocodile's final meal. During its lifetime, this crocodile would have been kept in captivity within a temple adjacent to the river at Kom Ombo, 50 kilometers north of Aswan, in Upper Egypt. This was one location where Sobek, the crocodile god, was revered and there may have been a temple here as early as 1985-1975 BC. In his temple, known as the 'House of Sobek', this crocodile would have been venerated as an incarnation of the god. As a crocodile deity, Sobek possessed many of the qualities and demeanor of the living reptile. He was feared for his voracious appetite, but also revered for his fertility and association with the annual Nile flood. Kom Ombo was one of the first places where, each year, the ancient Egyptians monitored the rising waters of the Nile, as the river's level indicated whether or not the crops would be plentiful. Over 300 crocodile mummies were recovered from the site, and it is believed that crocodiles were bred in a pool west of the temple. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from across the globe for the public to access for free. Scan the World is an open-source community effort; if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can help.