The Manchester Museum is engaging the public in a consultation regarding the future display of the mummified remains of Asru, an Egyptian woman from Thebes who lived around 2,700 years ago. Acquired in the early 1800s, Asru's remains have been on display for two centuries. The museum seeks public opinion on whether to continue this practice. This initiative aligns with broader debates on the ethical and cultural implications of displaying human remains, especially those acquired during colonial times, as highlighted in recent reports advocating for legal reform in the UK.
"She was shipped to Manchester and unwrapped at the Manchester Natural History Society in April 1825... and has regularly been on display for the two centuries since."
"Should we continue to display the body of Asru?"
"Laying Ancestors to Rest" addresses the ethical, cultural and historical concerns surrounding African ancestral remains, many of which were taken during colonial rule.
The report made 14 recommendations, calling on the UK government to make amendments to the Human Tissue Act 2004, including extending its scope to all human remains.
Collection
[
|
...
]