Boodle's Final Reports
Oct. 1933
1.
At the request of Dr. Howard Carter, I undertook the examination of a number of specimens from the tomb of Tut-Ankh-Amen, with a view to their identification botanically. The specimens include samples of seeds, fruits and leaves, and pieces of wood, and it was found that, considering the age of the material, the preservation was remarkably good, except for damage to a certain proportion of the seeds and fruits by small beetles, the dead bodies of which were found among some of the samples.
The fruits, seeds, etc., with few exceptions, have been named specifically.
Of the woods represented, there are eight kinds, and, in addition, there is one bark. These were examined microscopically, the fruits, seeds, etc., being examined in the same way, when this was found to be necessary.
In the case of one specimen of wood (a portion of a walking stick), no definite conclusion has been reached, so far, as to the identity of the wood. One wood has been named specifically as Zizyphus Spina-Christi, but in the remaining six woods there are difficulties in the way of precise identification, since, in each case, two or more species have wood of practically identical character, and of the same type of structure as the specimen to be named.
The examination of the material was carried out in
This sheet is to replace the paragraph beginning on the last line of p.1. L.A.B.
A for insertion
Page 1.
I am much indebted to Sir Arthur W. Hill, K.C.M.G., F.R.S., for permission to carry out the work of examination of the material at Kew, where I was able to compare the specimens with named examples in the Kew collections. I am also indebted to Dr. C. R. Metcalfe, Assistant Keeper of the Jodrell Laboratory, for facilities for microscopic examination of specimens, and to several other members of the Kew Staff for kind assistance.
2.
the Jodrell Laboratory. For permission to work there, I am indebted to Sir Arthur W. Hill, K.C.M.G., F.R.S., Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and my thanks are also due to several members of the Kew staff for kind assistance.
There follows a list of the plants represented among the material examined, the list being divided into two parts:- (1) fruits, seeds, etc., and (2) woods, together with one bark.
The botanical names are arranged alphabetically (in both lists), each followed by the name of the Family or larger group to which the plant belongs, and the English name of the plant is added, when there is one. Notes are also given, in most cases, on the Geographical Distribution of the plants, and on uses or properties, authorities for different items of information being cited. The abbreviations used are shown in the list of Botanical works given at the end.
Information regarding the Geographical Distribution of a number of the plants was kindly supplied by Mr. A. D. Cotton F.L.S., Keeper of the Kew Herbarium, with the following note:- "Many of the plants in this list have been widely cultivated for a long time, and it is now hardly possible to state where they occurred with as actual natives. Some of the cultivated varieties of these species do not occur at all in the wild state."
In most cases, in quoting Geographical distribution, I have omitted countries distant from or not adjoining the Near East.
3.
To use
Acacia sp.? [Leguminosae]. Gum, probably from a species of Acacia.
A sample consisting of lumps of a substance resembling gum arabic in appearance was subjected to some rough tests as to solubility in alcohol, water, etc., as to presence of lime, and nature of scent during burning. The results of these tests appear to indicate that the material is not a gum-resin, but a true gum in altered condition, solubility in water having been almost entirely lost. It is surmised that the age of the material might account for this change, and that the specimen may be Gum Arabic, or, at any rate, the gum of some species of Acacia.
No. 614 K.
4.
Carthamus tinctorius L. [Compositae]; Safflower.
The flowers of this plant, yield a dye, used in anciet Egypt for colouring the wrappings of mummies (Woen.). The plant is widely cultivated and often recorded as an escape, and is said to have originated in Arabia (Herb. Kew).
The specimens examined are the seed-like fruits, containing oil. The fruits (and also the flowers) are said to have medicinal properties (Drag.).
No. 146 (?).
5.
Centaurea depressa M.B. [Compositae].
A kind of Cornflower, with blue flower-heads, rather similar to the common Blue Cornflower (Centaurea Cyanus L.). The specimens examined are flower-heads from wreaths composed of these and of Olive-leaves.
The plant occurs in Egypt, etc. (Herb. Kew). It is stated to occur sporadically in Upper Egypt, but not elsewhere in Egypt (Woen.), but may probably have been cultivated in gardens of ancient Egypt as an ornamental plant, and the supposition is not excluded that this species may have been dispersed in ancient times as a weed in the Corn-fields of Upper Egypt (Schw.1).
No 253; 254 A
6.
Chaerophyllum sp.? A specimen, consisting of fruits and some branches of the stem, and belonging to the Umbelliferae, could not be definitely identified, but was referred with some reservation to the genus Chaerophyllum by a member of the staff of the Kew Herbarium.
No. 614 A
6a.
see p. 18a
Cier arietinum, L. [Leguminosae]; Chick Pea.
A few seeds of this species are present in one sample. The plant occurs in South Europe, Syria, etc., (K. Mus.). It is cultivated, and the seed is used as a food (Willis, K. Mus).
No. 277 (large box)
7.
Citrullus vulgaris Schrad. [Cucurbitaceae]; Water-melon.
Seeds of this species form the chief component of a number of samples.
The plant is widely cultivated in the Mediterranean Region; spontaneous and cultivated throughout the Sudan and elsewhere in Tropical Africa (Herb. Kew)
Oil and tar are obtained from the seeds in Upper Egypt (Woen.), and the fixed oil of the seeds is employed as food by the natives of many tropical countries (Y.B. Pharm. 1925); in India also as an illuminant (Watt).
The occurrence of seeds of a variety of this species in graves of the New and Middle Kingdoms has been recorded (Schw. 3).
Nos. 369, 426, 429, 470, 527a, 528, 530, 542, 544, 567, 573 B
8.
Coriandrum sativum L. [Umbelliferae]; Coriander.
Fruits of this plant are present in a number of samples. This species is very widely cultivated and frequent as an alien or escape from cultivation. Said to be wild in Palestine, Syria, Iraq and Greece (Herb. Kew.).
The fruits are used as a spice, and they contain an ethereal oil (Watt; Drag.). Oil of Coriander is included in the British Pharmacopeia, 1932.
Nos. 364, 371, 451, 518 B; 454, 476, 573 C; 495.
9.
Cyperus Papyrus L. [Cyperaceae]. Papyrus or Paper-reed.
The specimen examined is part of an upright stem.
This plant occurs in Egypt, Sudan and Tropical Africa generally (Herb. Kew).
The pith-like core of the upright stem was the part used in ancient times for the manufacture of paper, and medicinal properties have been attributed to the plant (Drag.)
No. 315.
10.
Ficus Sycomorus L. [Moraceae]; a species of fig known as the Sycamore Fig.
The specimens are the fruits of this species, which is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean Region, and occurs frequently as an escape; it is found wild in East and South Tropical Africa (Herb. Kew.).
The fruit is edible, and specimens have been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs (Schw. 1). Where branches of the tree have been found, it is suggested by Schweinfurth that they may have a symbolic significance. The tree is to be seen today throughout Upper and Lower Egypt, generally in cemeteries, and certainly has religious significance, especially in ancient Egyptian ritual (Carter).
No. 564.
11.
Grewia betulaefolia Juss. [Tiliaceae].
Some samples consist almost entirely of the fruits and the stones of the fruits of this species, which is found in Arabia, South Persia, Abyssinia, Sudan and Uganda (Herb. Kew).
The fruits of many species of the genus Grewia are stated to be edible (Watt), while medicinal properties are attributed to the fruits of some species (Drag.).
The specimens were referred to the staff of the Kew Herbarium and were identified as above.
Nos. 441, 342, 562, 506.
12.
Hordeum vulgare L. [Gramineae]; Barley.
Grains of this cultivated cereal are present in some of the samples.
A kind of beer was made from barley in Egypt (Car. 3, pp. 61-2). Barley has been found among ancient offerings to the dead (Schw. 1).
Nos. 277 (large & small box); 288 a; 401, 355; 439, 472, 531.
13.
Hyphaene thebaica Mart. [Palmae]; Dôm Palm.
This Palm occurs in Nubia, Eritraea, Abyssinia, Somaliland, and is also found in extra-tropical Egypt and Arabia (Fl. Trop. Afr.).
The fibrous layer of the fruit contains a soft mass of tissue, which somewhat resembles gingerbread in colour and taste, and is sometimes used in Egypt, mixed with date meal, as a food, or as a flavouring for other foods (Seml.).
This is the commonest fruit found in Egyptian tombs of all periods, and the Palm grows throughout Egypt today (Carter).
5.
On p. 14 please alter first paragraph so as to read as follows:- Berries of juniper are present in a number of samples, and two species appear to be represented. Some of the berries were referred a little doubtfully to Juniperus Oxycedrus L., the Prickly Juniper (expressly not to J. phoenicea L., which has previously been recorded from Egypt), and other berries, of a different type, to J. excelsa Bieb., the Grecian Juniper, the former by a member of staff of the Kew Herbarium, the latter by Mr. W. Dallimore, Keeper of the Kew Museums.
14.
Juniperus spp. [Pinaceae]; Juniper.
Berries of Juniper are present in a number of samples. Two species appear to be represented, some of the berries having been determined (Herb. Kew.) as probably Juniperus Oxycedrus L., the Prickly Juniper, and not J. phoenicea L., which has previously been recorded from Egypt, while other were determined by Mr W. Dallimore as probably J. excelsa, Bieb., the Grecian Juniper.
Juniperus Oxycedrus is widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean region, extending Eastwards to Syria, Western Asia Minor, the Caucasus, Armenia, N. Persia etc. (Elw.).
J. excelsa is native in Asia Minor, Syria, Armenia and the Caucasus (Elw.)
Juniper berries are stated to have been among the constituents of Kyphi (Tsch.), and medicinal properties have been ascribed to them (Woen., Drag.).
Nos. 146(?); 348, 356, 368, 400, 484, 527 B; 348, 400 Juniper berries only; 364, 371, 451, 518 B; 454, 476, 573 C; 589, 591 Juniper berries only.
14.
Juniperus Oxycedrus L. (?) [Pinaceae]; Prickly Juniper.
Berries of Juniper found in a number of samples were reffered to the Kew Herbarium. These were in two lots, and were reported on as follows:- (1) "Agrees very closely with Juniperus Oxycedrus L., and is almost certainly that species. It is not J. phoenicea L., which has previously been recorded from Egypt." (2) Juniperus Oxycedrus L. "This is apparently the same species as the last, though the fruits are larger. Possibly collected from more vigorous trees."
Juniperus Oxycedrus is widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean region, extending Eastwards to Syria, Western Asia Minor, the Caucasus, Armenia, N. Persia etc. (Elw.).
Juniper berries are stated to have been among the constituents of Kyphi (Tsch.), and medicinal properties have been ascribed to them (Woen., Drag.).
Nos. 146 (?); 348, 356, 368, 400, 484, 527 B; 348, 400 Juniper berries only; 364, 371, 451, 518 B; 454, 476, 573 C; 589, 591 Juniper berries only.
15.
Lens esculenta Moench. [Leguminosae]; Lentil.
A few Lentil seeds were found in some samples.
Lentils are widely cultivated in the Mediterranean Region and frequent as an escape (Herb. Kew.). They form an article of food known from ancient times (Watt), lentils having been cultivated in Palestine and also in Egypt, especially in the Delta, near Phacusa, i.e. Lentil-town, Phakos being the Greek name for Lentil (Woen., quoting Dioscorides).
Lentils have been found among offerings to the dead in Egypt (Schw. 2). The lentil is one of the commonest cereals in Egypt today, and a very important food in Upper Egypt among the fellaheen (Carter).
Nos. 146(?); 277 (large & small box); 401, 355; 454, 476, 573 C; 614 F.
16.
Mimusops Schimperi Hochst. [Sapotaceae].
One species of Mimusops is known as the Bullet-tree, while M. Schimperi is regarded as being the Persea of ancient writers (Schw. 3, Theo.). Some samples consist of the fruits of this species.
The fruits, which contain a sweet pulp, are offered for sale in the markets of Jemen (Schw. 3).
The tree is native in Abyssinia and Eritraea (Herb. Kew), and is not found at the present time in Egypt, but the seeds have been found in graves of different epochs, and Schweinfurth concludes that the fruits were to be had, at the time of the Middle Kingdom, everywhere in Egypt (Schw. 1 and 3).
Nos. 205; 526, 573 F, 616
16a.
Nigella saliva L. [Ranunculaceae]; Gith, or Black Cumin.
Seeds of this species are present in one sample. The plant, which belongs to the same genus as 'Love-in-a-mist' (N. damascena, L.), is cultivated, and occurs in South Europe, North Africa and Asia Minor.
The seeds have medicinal properties (Tsch., Drag.).
No. 614 H.
17.
Olea europaea L. [Oleaceae]; Olive.
The leaves of the Olive tree examined are from wreaths, and had been used in some cases with flowers of Centaurea depressa, in other wreaths alone.
The olive tree is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region, its native country being unknown (Herb. Kew.), though Syria has been suggested as its country of origin (Woen.).
Wreaths of Olive leaves have been found on the heads of mummies of the Graeco-Roman epoch in Egypt. (Schw. 1).
It is largely grown in the Fayûm (50 miles above Cairo), and along the N.W. coastal country adjoining the Delta (Carter).
Nos. 253, 254 A, 280 a, 300 a.
18.
Phoenix dactylifera L. [Palmae]; Date Palm.
Date-stone (mature), and immature date-fruits are present in some samples.
The Date Palm occurs in the Canaries and through the Oases of the Sahara to Arabia and South West Asia (E. Pr), but, owing to its having been cultivated throughout Tropical Africa from remote times, it is difficult to decide where it is truly indigenous. (Fl. Trop. Afr.).
It was common throughout Egypt, and today is the principal Palm of the country, its fibre and fruit being of wide commercial value, especially among the fellaheen (Carter).
Nos. 348, 356, 368, 400, 484, 527 B; 454, 476, 573 C.
18a.
Sup. 6a
Pisum sp. [Leguminosae]; a kind of Pea.
A few seeds occur in one sample. The resemble those of P. arvense, L., the Field Pea, and may belong to that species. The seeds of this plant (stated to be wild in Italy) are used as cattle food, and the plants as hay for fodder.
Nos. 277 (large box).
19.
Prunus Amygdalus Stokes [Rosaceae] Almond
The Almond is said to be wild only in Afghanistan, Turkestan, Transcaucasia, Persia and Syria. Widely cultivated (Herb. Kew.).
Stones of the fruits and some entire fruits of the Almond constituted two samples and were not found elsewhere among the material examined. The fruits belonged to one of the hard-shelled varieties of Almond.
The kernels are used for dessert and in confectionary, in the case of the Sweet varieties, while the oil pressed from the kernels of bitter almonds is used in medicine and cosmetics (K. Mus.), Almond oil being included in the British Pharmacopoeia 1932.
Nos. 614, C and D.
20.
Punica Granatum L. [Punicaceae]; Pomegranate.
The leaves of this species are from wreaths, having been used alone in one wreath, and with willow-leaves in another.
The pomegranate is cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region, and is often subspontaneous (Herb. Kew.). It was, and still is, very common throughout Egypt (Carter).
No. 255 A.
21.
Salix Safsaf Forsk. [Salicaceae]. A Species of Willow, occurring in Egypt, Sudan and East Africa southwards to Transvaal and Angola (Herb. Kew.).
The specimens are leaves of this species from wreaths. Other cases have been recorded of the occurrence of these leaves in ancient Egyptian tombs (Schw. 1), including one case in which they had been used with flower-heads of Centaurea depressa in making a garland.
Nos. 255 a, 299 a.
21a.
Sesamum sp.? Pedaliaceae ; Sesamum.
Seeds somewhat resemble those of Sesamum indicum DC. (accompanied by a few Coriander fruits) constituted one sample. They were referred to the Kew Herbarium and were reported on as being possibly a species of Sesamum.
No. 495.
22.
Thymbra spicata L. [Labiatae].
In its habit this plant shows some resemblance to Rosemary as regards certain characters and to Lavender in others. The specimen examined is part of a plant, consisting of branched stem with leaves and fruits.
This specimen is found in Crete, Greece, Cyclades, Thrace, Asia Minor, Syria, Palestine, Iraq (Herb. Kew.), and the plant, which yields an ethereal oil with an odour like thyme (Y. B. Pharm, 1911, p. 87), might perhaps have been used as a scent, or flavouring, or a medicine.
No. 367 H.
23.
Trigonella Foenum-graecum L. [Leguminosae]; Fenugreek.
The seeds of this species are present in a few samples, forming the chief constituent in two cases.
The plant occurs in Egypt (native?) etc; probably native in Iraq and Kurdistan (Sirjaev); widely cultivated from antiquity (Herb. Kew.).
The seeds have medicinal uses (Drag.316, Watt), and Fenugreek is also stated to be one of the constituents of Kyphi mentioned in the recipe given in the Ebers Papyrus (see Tsch., 1, 473).
Nos. 277 (large & small box & box 8); 454, 476, 573 C; 614F.
24.
Triticum dicoccum Schübl. [Gramineae]. Emmer wheat.
The material consists of spikelets with mature grains, some of the spikelets being entire, others broken.
A sample was referred to Professor J. Percival, who kindly examined and identified it, and supplied the following interesting note:- "The specimens ... are typical spikelets, with grain, of Emmer (wheat), Triticum dicoccum Schübl. Emmer was the only kind of wheat known to the ancient Egyptians, and I have examined authentic specimens from Egypt dating from pre-dynastic times down the XVIII-th dynasty and later. This cereal was still grown in small amount in Egypt at the beginning of the last century, but is no longer cultivated there. It is, however, still found as an important cereal in Abyssinia, and also grown by primitive peoples in out of the way parts of Persia, Russia, as well as in the Basque provinces of Spain and certain districts of Serbia, Morocco and Southern Germany."
Nos. 277 (large & small box & box 8); 401, 355, 439, 473, 531; 454, 476, 573 C.
25.
Vitis vinifera L. [Vitaceae]; the cultivated grape (vine).
This vine is stated to be native in the Orient (Willis). Grape seeds and withered grapes are present in some samples.
Grapes resembling raisins are recorded as occurring among offerings to the dead in Egyptian tombs (Schw. 1), and raisins are quoted as forming an ingredient of Kyphi (Tsch.)
Nos. 146(?), 1 seed; 348, 356, 368, 400, 484, 527 B; 364, 371, 451, 518 B; 454, 476, 573 C.
26.
Zizyphus Spins-Christi Willd. [Rhamnaceae]; Christ's Thorn.
This plant occurs in Egypt, Sudan, dry regions of Northern Africa from Mauritania to Arabia (Herb. Kew.). It is common in Egypt, especially Upper Egypt, where it as known as Nabbûkh (Carter).
The specimens are stones of the fruits, and some entire fruits. The latter are, naturally, shrunken, and the dried skin and remains of the pulp are friable. As fragments, also, of these parts are present, it is quite possible that all the stones may represent fruits that were entire when placed in the tomb.
The fruits are eaten by natives in the region of the Upper Nile (Woen.), and the unripe fruit is stated to have medicinal properties (Drag.).
Nos. 146(?); 614 B; 532, 534, 504; 454, 476, 573 C; 369, 426, 429, 470, 527 a, 528, 530, 542, 544, 567, 573 B; 401, 355 one stone; 441, 342, 562, 506.
Apparently also 439, 473, 531 (see MS. note p.3)
27.
The following specimens have not been identified:- (1) Dicotyledonous seeds, resembling those of Sesamum in shape, and probably belonging to the Pedaliaceae, the Family to which Sesamum belongs (Herb. Kew.).; (2) seeds, probably of a Leguminous plant, and rather like lentils in shape.
(1):- No. 495 (the sample contains also a few Coriander fruits).
(2):- _614 E
6. On p. 27 (or was this typed on the lower half of p.26?). Two of the three seeds mentioned here (as not identified) have to be omitted, because seed No.1, Sesamum (?), and seed No.3, Nigella, are now dealt with on pages 21a and 16a.
Sheet No. 27 will now read:- "The following specimens have not been identified:- a sample of seeds, probably of a Leguminous plant, and rather like lentils in shape."
27.
The following specimens have not been identified:- (1) Dicotyledonous seeds or carpels, resembling seeds of Sesamum in shape; (2) seeds, probably of a Leguminous plant, and rather like lentils in shape; (3) small albuminous Dicotyledonous seeds.
(1). 495 (the sample contains also a few (Coriander fruits).
(2). 614 E.
(3). 614 H.
28.
Betula verrucosa Ehrh. [Betulaceae]; Silver Birch-tree.
Birch bark is present in some samples, in which it has been used as decoration of different articles made of wood, such as a chariot-wheel, a walking stick, and a composite bow, some other composite bows made of horn being also similarly decorated.
This tree, which is widely distributed in Europe, is not found in Persia but occurs on the higher mountains of the Caucasus and in Armenia and Asia Minor (Elw.).
Nos. 332; Composite bows (no number);
Walking-stick (no number).
29.
Cedrus Libani Barr. (or C. atlantica?) [Pinaceae]; Cedar of Lebanon.
Pieces of wood, some faced with gold, from the sepulchral shrine. These are Cedar wood, either Cedar of Lebanon (C. Libani) or Atlas Cedar (C. atlantica Manetti), the wood of these two species not being readily distinguishable by their structure.
The wood of Cedrus Libani is suitable for cabinets, internal work, carving, etc. (Boul.).
The Cedar of Lebanon is found in Syria (Lebanon), in Asia Minor (Taurus and Anti-Taurus ranges) etc., while the Atlas Cedar occurs in Algeria and Morocco (Elw.).
Nos. 239 (two gold-faced pieces); 207 (tenon from outermost shrine).
Is cross-tongue right here? The specimen was labelled "Tenon from first (outermost) sepulchral shrine."
30.
Cupressus sempervirens L. [Pinaceae]; Mediterranean Cypress.
Two pieces of wood, faced with gold, from Third (outermost) coffin, have been identified as Cypress, and perhaps the species given above.
The tree is indigenous in Northern mountains of Persia, in Syria, Cillcia, Greece, and the Islands of Rhodes, Crete and Cyprus. (Elw.).
The timber is very durable (Elw.), with aromatic scent, strong, lasting, and stated not to be attacked by insects; used for cabinet-making and turnery (Wiesn.); said also to be used for the coffins of the Popes (Boul.).
No. 253.
31.
Fraxinus Ornus L. [Oleaceae]; Flowering Ash or Manna Ash.
Pieces of wood from a composite bow (decorated with Birch bark) appear to be this species. Other composite bows were made of horn, and were similarly decorated.
The tree is widely distributed in Southern Europe and Asia Minor (Elw.).
Ash timber (the wood of Fraxinus) is used for many purposes where strength and elasticity are required, e.g., spokes and felloes of wheels, tool-handles, shafts of carts, etc. (K. B. 1917, p. 291). The wood of the Flowering Ash is used in general for the same purposes as that of the Common Ash (F.excelsior), and especially for the spokes of wheels and walking-sticks (Wiesn.).
No number, "Sample of wood and bark decoration from Composite bows."
31a.
Prunus Amygdalus Stokes [Rosaceae]; Almond.
Pieces of wood (parts of arrows). These are, at any rate, very similar to the wood of the Almond, but have not been identified with certainty.
Almond wood is occasionally used for cabinet-making and turnery (Wiesn.)
The geographical distribution of the Almond tree is given under Prunus Amygdalus in the list of seeds, fruits etc.
No number; "Tanged piles of arrows"
1. Where I have had my MS re-typed, I have ticked those pencil numbers (on the
new sheets), which you had ticked on the copies that you saw.
2. I return the papers you pinned onto my sheets of MS., and have used the
information you gave me, when I thought you intended me to do so. Please delete
any of it from my MS, if you did not intend me to include it.
Under Zizyphus, have I spelt Nabbûkh as you wrote it?
3. I have replaced the word tenon by cross-tongue (under Quercus & Zizyphus
woods), which I think, from your explanation and diagram, is correct, rather
than dowel. But please see pencil note under Cedrus wood.
4. By the thinness of the specimens you were able to decide that 236
splinter,
239 not gold-faced, and the specimen I had from Newberry were all
cross-tongues. I was to remind you of this, and that you would write a note
about the Newberry specimen, to go with my notes under Quercus Aegilops, or
where you refer to them.
32.
Quercus Aegilops L. [Fagaceae]; Valonia Oak.
Pieces of wood (from cross-tongues of the third and fourth outermost Shrines, Nos. 237, and 207.) identified as Oak, probably Valonia Oak.
The wood of this species is very similar in character to the wood of the two Common Oaks (Quercus pedunculata Ehrh. and Q. sessiliflora Salisb.), which is used for ship-building and all purposes where strength, rigidity and durability are needed (Stone), for casks and heavy furniture (Wiesn.).
I had previously (in 1925) examined a piece of similar wood from the shrine of Tut-Ankh-Amen, and identified it as Oak (see Car. 2, p. 39, note), without naming it specifically, though suggesting Quercus Cerris L. (Turkey Oak) as a possibility. Examination of the structure of further specimens has led me to regard the wood as more probably Valonia Oak. The improbability of its being Turkey Oak is confirmed to some extent by the character of that wood, which is described as having unfavourable technical properties, being only good for burning (Wiesn.), and as having a bad reputation in England, because it will not stand weather or alteration of wet and dry like the Common Oak (Elw.).
Quercus Aegilops is widely spread throughout Greece and the adjoining islands, and also Asia Minor and Crete; according to Sir J. Hooker, it is very gregarious in Syria (Elw.).
"*Tongue from shrine No 207 Fourth (outermost) shrine."; also No. 237 ("*Tongue & splinter from second shrine"), [Tongue = Oak; splinter = Zizyphus).
* "Tenon" originally.
33.
Ulmus nitens Moench. [Ulmaceae]; Smooth-leaved Elm.
Pieces of wood used for the nave, radial bars and felloes of a wheel. These have been identified as Elm, and are very similar in structure to the wood of the Common or English Elm (Ulmus campestris L.), but are probably that of U. nitens.
The timber of the latter species is hard and tough (Elw.), and would, no doubt, be suitable for the same purpose as the wood of the Common Elm, one of the uses of the wood of the latter being in wheel-wright work, especially for the naves of wheels (Stone, Boul.).
Ulmus nitens occurs in South Europe, Algeria, Asia Minor, Caucasus, Armenia and Persia. (Elw.).
No. 332
34.
Zizyphus Spina-Christi Willd. [Rhamnaceae]; Christ's Thorn.
Pieces of wood of this species examined are from cross-tongues of the First (innermost) and third sepulchral shrines, Nos. 239 and 237. The wood is described as excellent for joinery or cabinet-making (Wiesn.).
The geographical distribution is given in the list of seeds, fruits, etc., the same species being represented there.
Nos. 237, "splinter from second sepulchral shrine"; 239, piece not gold-faced.
One other wood examined, but not identified, is part of a walking stick, ornamented with Birch-bark.
Walking-stick (no number).
35.
List of books, etc., referred to, with abbreviations used in text.
(Boul.). Boulger, The Uses of Plants, 1889
(B. P.). British Pharmacopoeia, 1932.
(Carter). This indicates information kindly supplied to me by Dr. Howard Carter.
(Car. 2). Carter, The Tomb of Tut-Ankh-Amen, vol. 2, 1927.
(Car. 3). Carter, vol. 3 of the same, 1933.
(Drag.). Die Heilpflanzen der verschiedenen Völker und Zeiten, 1898.
(Elw.). Elwes and Henry, The trees of Great Britain and Ireland, 1906-13.
(E. Pr.) Engler and Prantl, Die natürlichen Pfanzenfamilien, 1 ed.
(Fl. Trop. Afr.) Flora of Tropical Africa (ed. by Thiselton-Dyer, etc.).
(Herb. Kew.). Indicates information supplied by the Staff of the Kew Herbarium.
(K. B.). Kew Bulletin.
(K. Mus.) Official Guide to Museum I, Kew,1930.
(Schw. 1). Schweinfurth, Ueber Pflanzenreste aus altaegyptischen Grä
Ber. d. deutsch. Botan. Gesellschaft, vol. 2, 1884, p. 351.
(Schw. 2). Schweinfurth, Neue Beiträge zur Flora Aegyptens, as above,
Vol. 1, 1883, p. 544.
(Schw. 3). Schweinfurth, Ueber Pflanzenreate aus der Zeit der XII-ten
Dynastie ..., in Wiss. Veröffentlichung d. deutsch. Orient-Gesellsch.,
1908.
36.
(Seml.). Semler, Die tropische Agrikultur, 2. ed., vol. 1, 1897.
(Stone). Stone, Timbers of Commerce, 1904.
(Theo.). Theophrastus, Enquiry into Plants, transl. Hort, 1916.
(Tsch.) Tschirch, Handbuch der Pharmakognosie, 1909-27.
(Watt). Watt, The Commercial Products of India, 1908.
(Wiesn.). Wiesner, Die Rohstoffe des Pflanzenreiches, 3. ed., vol. 2, 1918.
Willis, Flowering Plants and Ferns, 1919.
(Woen.). Woenig, Die Pflanzen im alten Aegypten, 1886.
(Y. B. Pharm.). Year Book of Pharmacy.
Tûtankhamen No 261. C.
Flowers from Collar of Anubis
An Anthemis.
Newberry
No 291 A.
Leaf of Punica granatum L. Pomegranate.
Newberry
Newberry does not state which of the two wreaths.
1
Tutankhamen. No 289
Germinating barley grains.
Newberry
This No is wrong. Do not know to which Newberry refers. Suppose he may mean
288a the germinated figure of Osiris
2
No 32 (x). Bulb of the Onion, Allium Cepa, L.
"Behind Shrine, West end. No Number." Bulb of the Onion, Allium Cepa, L.
No 28 Partition Wall. Beams of various kinds of wood.
(1) Date Palm, Phoenix dactylifera, L.
(2) Pine, either Pinus laricio or P. halepensis.
(3) A very hard and close-grained wood, probably of a species of
Dalbergia from the Sudan.
207
Shrine. The timber of which the shrine is made is remarkably heavy, and the
specimen examined has been definitely identified by Mr Boodle of the Jodrell
Laboratory of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, as a piece of Oak. It is not
possible to identify it specifically but it is suggested that it may be
Quercus Cerris, L. This is the first time that oak has been
identified from ancient Egypt and it must, of course, have been imported
from Syria or the coast of Asia Minor. The same is also true of the pine wood.
Botany
Nos. 28, 32X, 207
1.
Tut-Ankh-Amen. 349 Botanical Samples.
? 146. (Label inside box:- "?Fallen out of 146"). 'Seeds' (botanically fruits) of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius, Linn.), and a few stones of Christ's Thorn
205. (Label inside box:- "Immature fruit of Mimusops from No. 205."). Small fruit of Mimusops Schimperi. Hochst. A kind of Bullet Tree.
253. Wreath. Leaves of Olive (Olea europaea, Linn.), and flowers of Centaurea depressa, Bieb. (resembling Blue Cornflower).
254 A. Wreath. The same as 253.
255 A. Wreaths. Leaves of Pomegranate (Punica Granatum, Linn.). Second wreath, Leaves of Pomegranate and of Willow (Salix Safsaf, Forsk.).
277. Large Box. Seeds of Trigonella Foenum-graecum, Linn., i.e. Fenugreek, also spikelets of Emmer Wheat (Triticum dicoccum, Schübler), some Barley (Hordeum vulgare, Linn.), and a few Lentils (Lens esculenta, Moench.)
277. Small Box. Seeds of Fenugreek, With Emmer
2.
and some Barley.
277. Box '8'. Emmer Wheat and some Fenugreek.
280 a. Wreath. Leaves of Olive.
288 a. Barley. 299 a. Leaves of Willow (Salix Safsaf).
300 a. Leaves of Olive.
315. Stem of Papyrus (Cyperus Papyrus, Linn.)
348, 356, 400, 484, 527 B. Immature fruits of Date (Phoenix dactlifera, Linn.), also Date stones, a few Juniper berries, and Grape seeds.
348, 400. Juniper berries.
364, 371, 451, 518 B. Grape stones, withered grapes, and a few Juniper berries and fruits of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum, Linn.)
367 H. Fruiting specimen of Thymbra spicata, Linn. Related to, and something like, Thyme in growth.
369, 426, 429, 470, 527 a, 528, 530, 542, 544, 567, 573 b. Seeds of Water Melon (Citrullus vulgaris, Schrad.), and a few stones of Christ's Thorn
3.
(Zizyphus Spina-Christi, Willd.).
401, 355. Barley, with a few Lentils, spikelets of Emmer, and a stone of Christ's Thorn.
439, 473, 531. Spikelets of Emmer much broken, a few stones of Christ's Thorn, and some fragments of Barley.
441, 342, 562, 506.
Fruits and stones of a plant not identified, and a few stones of Christ's Thorn.
454, 476, 573 C. Fruits of Coriander, also some Date stones, Grape seeds, stones of Christ's Thorn, Lentils and Juniper berries.
495. Carpels or seeds of a plant not identified, and a few Coriander fruits.
526, 573F, 616. Fruits of Mimusops Schimperi.
532, 534, 504. "Contents of 36 baskets." Fruits and stones of Christ's Thorn.
564. Fruits of Sycamore Fig (Ficus Sycomorus, Linn.).
589, 591. Juniper berries.
614 A. Branches and fruits of an Umbelliferous plant, not identified.
4.
614 B. Stones of Christ's Thorn.
614 C and D. Stones and fruits of Almond (Prunus Amygdalus, Stokes), a hard shelled variety.
614 E. Seeds not identified.
614 F. Seeds of Fenugreek and a few Lentils.
614 H. Seeds not identified. (Material largely destroyed by small beetles.).
614 K. Gum, altered by age. Gum Arabic?
Certain not resin.
Geographical Distribution of some of the species, as given in the Index Kewensis.
Olea europaea, Linn. Mediterranean region, Orient.
Citrullus vulgaris, Schrad. Tropical Africa.
Mimusops Schimperie, Hochst. Abyssinia.
Salix Safsaf, Forsk, North and tropical Africa.
Ficus Sycomorus, Linn. North Africa.
Centaurea depressa, Bieb. Caucasian region, Iberia.
Prunus Amygdalus, Stokes. North Africa, Orient.
Punica granatum, Linn. South Europe, Mauritius.
More detailed Geographical Distribution could, no doubt, be supplied by the Kew Herbarium, if desired.
L.A.B.
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
6th June 1932.
Dear Carter,
I have looked at the specimens, and find that the one I quoted as Cypress or Juniper is labelled:- "Sample wood, Gesso and Gold, from first (outermost) coffin No. 253."
The piece of tenon with sawn end is :- No. 207. "Tenon from First (outermost) sepulchral shrine, the sign < > 'West' marked on block (i.e. Western panel of shrine)"
I think that this is of Cedar, but have not my notes here, and I told you, in my previous letter, what I made of it, I believe.
You need not trouble to answer this.
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
23. June 1932.
Dear Carter,
I have made some progress in the examination of the seeds and fruits that you brought to Kew, but I have been interrupted a good deal by questions from Kew people and outsiders, so I have not given a great amount of time to the examination so far. Should you need my observations for the book you have in preparation, I will endeavour to hurry up with the work. There is a good deal of verification to be done in the case of specimens provisionally named, and I hope that in some cases determination of the species may be possible.
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
Aug. 9. 1932
Dear Brunton, Carter
I enclose list, giving the results in naming the specimens of fruits, seeds, etc. (35 samples).
There are five samples which I have not succeeded in identifying, and which I will refer to the Herbarium for name, as I have spent some time on them, and think that they may be more easily dealt with there, at any rate in the case of three of them. They are 614 A, 441 etc., 614 E, 495 and 614 H. I will also send the Juniper berries to the Hebarium for an opinion as to whether they are Juniperus phoenicea.
A report on the specimens referred to the Herbarium will be sent to you by the Director of the R. Bot. Gardens.
I think you said that the 34 samples need not go back to Cairo, and that you would be willing to present them to Kew. Is that correct? They would, I believe, be kept in
the Kew Museum.
I left the woods for further work until I had done with the seeds etc. , but will return to them now.
My charges for the work, done so far, come to just about £10, and I reckon that £2 or £3 should repay me for further work that I intend to do on the woods. At any rate, I can fix £3 as the limit, or less, if you find the expense mounting up so far.
Your sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Tel. 0610 Richmond
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
13 Aug. 1932.
Dear Carter,
Many thanks for your letter, and for the cheque you kindly sent. I accept the latter as payment for the examination of your specimens including the further work necessary in connection with the specimens of wood.
I shall be pleased to come over to see you one afternoon next week, and, unless I hear to the contrary, I will come on Wednesday the 17th at about 3 p.m. If another day would be more convenient to you, please let me know, as any day that week would suit me.
How stupid of me to address you as Brunton. I have had a few specimens from him lately, and intended to tell you so in my letter. That is the reason that I had his name in my mind, when I wrote.
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
8 Sept. 1932.
Dear Carter
I enclose a further report on the specimens of wood, with some notes. A report will, I believe, be sent to you in a day or two, on the few fruits and seeds which I referred to the Herbarium.
If you would like to discuss anything in this report with me, I could come and see you one afternoon soon.
I was much amused by the extract you sent me from the letter of a sham? clairvoyant.
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Woods from tomb of Tut-Ankh-Amen.
1.
Second report, replacing earlier one.
(1). Walking-stick, no number. Wood not identified. Bark decoration:-
Bark of Silver Birch (Betula verrucosa, Ehrh.)
(2). No 239. Two gold-faced pieces :- Cedar (Cedrus atlantica,
Manetti or C. Libani, Barrelier). One piece not gold-faced (part of
a cross-tongue?):- Christs's Thorn (Zizyphus Spina-Christie, Willd.)
(3). No. 253. Cypress (Cupressus sp.), or possibly Juniper
(Juniperus sp.)
(4). No. 207. Tenon from outermost shrine. Cedar.
(5). Tenon from shrine:- Oak (Quercus sp.), possibly Quercus
Cerris, Linn. (Turkey Oak).
(6). No. 237. Tenon and splinter (part of another tenon?) from second shrine.
Tenon:- Oak; splinter:- Christ's Thorn.
(7). Tanged piles of arrows. Wood very similar to Almond (Prunus
Amygdalus,
Stokes), but not identified with certainty.
(8). Composite bows. Three samples:- Horn. Fourth sample:- Wood of Flowering or
Manna Ash (Fraxinus Ornus, Linn.). Bark -
2.
decoration :- apparently Birch-bark.
(9). Chariot-wheel. Nave, radial bar, felloe, and peg from felloe:- Elm
(Ulmus sp.), possibly Ulmus nitens, Moench. Bark-decoration of
radial bar:- Birch-bark.
L. A. Boodle
7 Sept. 1932
Notes on the above.
I have identified the Bark-decoration of the radial bar of the chariot wheel, and that of the walking-stick as Birch-bark; and that of the composite bows appears to be the same.
The wood of one bow I have determined as the Flowering Ash.
The tanged piles of the arrows are, with little doubt, the wood of a species closely related to the Almond.
With regard to the Chariot-wheel, I have decided that the wood is not Celtis australis, but Elm almost certainly. The other possibility was the wood of Zelkova (two species in question),
3.
with wood very similar to that of the Elm. I could not get a specimen of wood of Zelkova Cretica, but examined one of Z. Crenata, and I think that I am right in deciding against Zelkova.
From the structure of No. 253, it seems more likely that this wood is Cypress than Juniper, but I do not think that a quite definite opinion can be given.
Geographical distribution from Elwes, Trees of Great Britain and Ireland.
Fraxinus Ornus, Linn. France, Maritime Alps ... S. Tyrol ... common in E. Spain, Corsica, Sardinia, Italy, Servia, Bosnia, Greece and Asia Minor.
Betula verrucosa, Ehrh. Not found in Persia or Afghanistan, but on the higher mountains of the Caucasus, and in Armenia and Asia Minor. In Europe ... S. limit from the mountains of Bulgaria through Servia, Bosnia, Italy, Sicily, France, Portugal and Spain.
4.
Cedrus atlantica, Manetti. Algeria, Morrocco.
Cedrus Libani, Barrelier. Lebanon, Asia Minor.
Quercus Cerris, Linn. South Europe, Asia Minor and North Syria (central and N. Spain, Italy, Sicily, etc.)
Ulmus nitens, Moench. Central, W. and S. Europe, Algeria, Asia Minor, Caucasus, Armenia, Persia and Turkestan.
I notice that Asia Minor is common to Cedrus Libani and the Fraxinus and the Betula. In the case of the Quercus and Ulmus, the wood might be that of species other than Cerris and nitens, so the fact that I have suggested those occurring in Asia Minor does not carry independent weight.
L. A. B.
8 Sept. 1932.
SAVILLE CLUB
69, BROOK STREET. W. 1
SODALITAS CONVIVIUM
June 6th
Dear Mr Carter,
I saw Hill at Kew this morning. He thinks that the best plan would be for the seeds etc. to be sent there in the first instance. They could then decide what could be done there and what could be better done by the
British Museum. Hill, I find, has now left this Club but that will not, of course, make any difference.
Yours sincerely
Alfred Dobrée.
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS,
KEW, SURREY.
All communications should be addressed to
THE DIRECTOR
H.1737/32.
12th September, 1932.
Dear Sir,
I enclose you herewith a list of determinations of specimens of fruits and seeds which Mr. Boodle handed me for examination some weeks ago. We have done our best to determine them and I regret that in several cases it has not been possible to do so.
Believe me,
Yours very truly,
Arthur W Hill
A. W. Hill C.M.G.
Howard Carter, Esq.,
2, Princes Gate Court,
South Kensington,
London, S.W. 7.
H.1737/32
342, 441, 506 & 562. Grewia betulaefolia Juss. (with a few odd seeds of other species).
348, 400. Agrees very closely with Juniperus oxycedrus L. and is almost certainly that species. It is not J. phoenicea L., which has previously been recorded from Egypt.
589, 591. Juniperus oxycedrus L. This is apparently the same species as the last, though the fruits are larger. Possibly collected from more vigorous trees.
495. Sesamum? Possibly a species of this genus.
614 A. Umbelliferae. Probably a species of Chaerophyllum.
614 E. Not identified.
614 H. Not identified.
The Herbarium,
Royal Botanic Gardens,
Kew, Surrey.
12th September, 1932.
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
27 Sept.1932.
Dear Carter,
I am sorry that I have let the work on your specimens spin out to such a long time, especially as you are probably very busy, now that the time for you to leave England is getting near.
I thought it advisable to refer the Emmer Wheat for verification to a specialist on the different kinds of wheat, so I sent some spikelets to Prof. Percival, and now enclose his reply, for you to see, and to keep if you like.
You have the Geographical distribution of those woods, which I had named specifically, in my report sent to you on Sept. 8th, and I hope to be able to send you a similar list (prepared chiefly at the Herbarium) for the fruits etc., in a few days. I may also be able to add something about the probable identity of the two woods, and have been looking up some data as to uses of the fruits + seeds.
You may well be too busy to see me again, but, if that is not the case, I should
be glad to call one afternoon to discuss some things with you.
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Department of Agricultural Botany,
THE UNIVERSITY,
READING, BERKS.
Prof. JOHN PERCIVAL, M.A., Sc.D.
Sep 24 1932
Dear Mr Boodle,
The specimens taken from the tomb of Tut-Ankh-Amen, which you sent me are typical spikelets with grain, of Emmer (Wheat) (Triticurn dicoccum Schübl.)
Emmer was the only type of wheat known to the Ancient Egyptians & I have examined authentic specimens from Egypt dating from pre-dynastic times down to the XVIIIth dynasty & later.
This cereal was still grown in small amounts in Egypt at the beginning of last century, but is no longer cultivated there. It is, however, still found as an important cereal in Abyssinia & also grown by primitive peoples in out of the way parts of Persia, Russia, as well as in the Basque provinces of Spain, & certain districts of Serbia, Morocco & Southern Germany.
Yours very sincerely
John Percival.
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS,
KEW, SURREY.
All communications should be addressed to
THE DIRECTOR
14th May, 1932.
Dear Dr. Howard Carter,
I wrote to Mr. L. A. Boodle, the late Assistant-Keeper of the Jodrell Laboratory, with regard to your specimens, about which you spoke to me on Wednesday night, and he says he will be very glad to undertake the work of identifying them, as far as he may find it possible. He would, however, like to know more abut the extent of the collection and the nature of the specimens before suggesting any rate of remuneration.
He proposes to come and see me on Monday next (16th) to talk over matters, but I think really the best thing would be if you could arrange to see him, as you could give him much more information on the matter than I can. Mr. Boodle is staying at "Strathmore", 27 Petersham Road, Richmond, and I would suggest that you might feel inclined to get into direct communication with him.
Should he undertake the work for you, I should be prepared to give him full facilities for carrying on his work in our Laboratory.
With kind regards,
Yours sincerely,
Arthur W. Hill
P.S. Should you be free you could meet Mr. Boodle here on Monday, but I imagine you are hardly likely to be in town
Dr. Howard Carter
2 Princes Gate Court
S.W.7.
Dear Mr Boodle,
Mr Arthur Hill has written to tell me that you have kindly offered to help me with regards to the identification, as far as it may be possible, of a number of Ancient Egyptian botanical specimens from the tomb of Tut.Ankh.Amen, that I have been able to bring over to London.
I look forward to the pleasure of meeting you. I would gladly come to meet you some evening this week, or early next week, to talk over matters, or better still, would you care to come & dine quietly here where I have the material.
Yours sincerely
H.C
Dear Dr Hill
Thank you ever so much for the trouble you have taken on my behalf.
I have just returned & have written to Mr. Boodle to arrange a meeting to talk over matters. The result of which I will let you know.
Again thanking you
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey.
31 May 1932
Dear Mr Carter,
I have been examining your specimens, and will tell you how far I have got with them.
Two pieces of wood under No. 239 Fourth (innermost) shrine:- Cedar; the third piece not identified
Tenon from first sepulchral shrine FIRST (OUTERMOST) SHRINE:- Cedar
Tenon from sepulchral shrine:- Oak
Second shrine ?7 236 Tenon:- Oak; splinter:- not identified.
First (outermost) coffin = 253:- Possibly Juniperus or Cypress.
"Tanged? piles" of arrows:- not identified.
"Wood and bark decoration from composite bows:-
4 pieces not wood but probably horn, and
1 piece:- wood, not identified. (barks [?])
Chariot wheel 322, Radial bar, nave and felloe:- probably all Elm, or, if not that, Celtis mediterranea.
By spending more time on the specimens which I have not identified, I might be able to name one or more of them. So, if
you are more anxious about the identity of some than others, I will concentrate accordingly.
Next time I write, I will try to make some suggestion as to rate of payment.
Perhaps I might as well have the other box of specimens, so that I may start on them. Or would you prefer me to first see whether I can get on further with the present lot? I could call for the second box, or would you prefer to send it, as you suggested as an alternative?
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Drafts
2, PRINCE'S GATE COURT, S.W.7
KENSINGTON 6077.
June 1st, 1932.
Dear Boodle,
So many thanks for your interesting letter regarding your identification of the woods.
It would appear that the Ancient Egyptians purposely used different woods for parts of these shrines, which is but a natural feature in structural work of the kind.
It would be a nice point if one could pin down No. 253 - from the first (outermost) coffin - which you note as being "possibly Juniperus or Cypress"; also the wood employed for the tanged arrow 'piles', and also the bark employed for decorative purposes.
With regard to the chariot wheel (No. 322), which you note 'probably Elm or Celtis mediteranea', I imagine, from a practical point of view, if there should be a doubt, whichever the harder and more durable wood, the more probable. For, in the construction of so light a wheel as that of the Eg. Chariot, the qualities of a wood must have been a very important consideration, as in vehicular construction today.
Another important point (in all cases) is the probable habitat of the various woods. One would expect the range of intercourse that the Egyptians had during the Eg. New Empire to have been something like:- N. to S., Eritrea and Abyssinia to the Tigris and Euphrates Regions, and E. to W., the Tigris and Euphrates Regions to say Crete, including Aegean Islands, in fact, all that part of the Eastern Mediterranean, and Libya.
Please dot not allow such remarks to bias, but only as a suggestion as to probability.
I will willingly bring the remainder of the material - seeds and fruits etc. - anytime you like. The identification and habitat of all the material is of immense importance archeologically.
I look forward to your suggestions as to adequate remuneration.
Yours sincerely
Howard Carter
Rep. Oct. 14th 1933
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
4 Oct. 1933
Dear Carter,
I suppose that you are either back again, or will return shortly, and I hope that you have had a pleasant and beneficial cruise.
I enclose my MS. and a page of my notes, etc. I shall be glad to hear of any criticisms that you may have. Apart from that, I may want to make a few alterations, which would probably be under Juniperus berries, Fraxinus and Ulmus wood, but hope to let you know soon whether I find alteration necessary.
Kind regards from us both
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Rep 14th Oct
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
14th Oct. 1933.
Dear Carter,
I suppose that you are back by now and I hope that you received the typed MS, which I sent to you about a week ago.
I now enclose 6 sheets, representing alterations and additions, the last that I see necessity for.
One sheet gives a paragraph to replace that beginning on the last line of page.
One on Juniper I have numbered '14'. It is to replace the sheet 14, which you have. Similarly the one numbered is to replace the sheet '27' which you have.
'6a' is to insert after '6' and '16a' after 16 and '18a' after '18'. These are additions, two seeds which I had omitted to examine, and one which I had failed to name.
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
19 Oct. 1933.
Dear Carter,
Many thanks for your letter, with enclosures, and I am very glad that you enjoyed your visit to the Greek Islands so thoroughly.
I am also very pleased to know that my report has your approval, and am obliged to you for your notes relating to alterations, which I am entering on my copy of the typed MS.
You have, no doubt, received the four sheets, which I sent later:- Cicer (sheet 6a), Nigella (16a), Pisum (18a), and one sheet for alteration of introduction. I find that, on sheet 18a, I have 'Pisum arvensis, L.', which should read 'Pisum arvense L.'. Will you kindly correct this in your copy?
There may possibly be one more alteration required; I will let you know in a day or two.
In the quotation I sent you, Woenig must
have been merely guessing that the vine might have been absent in some parts of Egypt.
It would give me much pleasure to see you again before you leave, but, considering how busy you must be, it will not be surprising if you find that you cannot spare the time.
In answer to your reminder about payment, I find it very difficult to estimate the time I spent on the work, but suggest £10 (to include work, typing and omnibus fares to Kew). If you think this is unreasonable, please say so, and I shall be content with less.
Very kind regards from my wife and myself,
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
1.
Strathmore
27 Petersham Road
Richmond
Surrey
22 Oct. 1933.
Dear Carter,
Thank you for you letter of the 19th, acknowledging receipt of my further notes. I hope that you have got rid of your cold by now. Colds are in fashion.
Sorry to trouble you with some further corrections, which I think are really the last.
1. A new sheet enclosed, No. 21a (Sesamum sp.) to go after No. 21 (Salix sp.).
2. On page 6. Instead of:- "but was named at the Kew Herbarium as probably a species of Chaerophyllum", please alter so as to read:- "but was referred with some reservation to the genus Chaerophyllum by a member of the staff of the Kew Herbarium."
3. In the sheet, which I sent you to replace the paragraph beginning on the last line of page 1, please delete:- "M.A., Ph.D." after the name "Dr. C. R. Metcalfe."
4. On page 11, last sentence, instead of:- "The specimens were identified by the late Dr. O. Stopf, F.R.S.", please alter so as to read:- "The species were
2.
referred to the Staff of the Kew Herbarium, and were identified as above.
3.
The number of this sample is 614 E, and the other two pencil numbers 495 and 614 H must be deleted from p. 27.
I am sorry that this is so long. I would have had some of it re-typed, but should have had to wait till Monday to get it done.
Yours sincerely
L. A. Boodle
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS,
KEW, SURREY.
All communications should be addressed to
25th August, 1933.
Dear Sir,
With reference to your visit to the Herbarium last Wednesday, I have now looked up the literature relating to Lotus and Papyrus.
According to Schweinfurth, the Lotus of ancient Egypt included a white waterlily (Nymphaea Lotus) and a blue one (Nymphaea caerulea). Conrad, The Waterlilies, pp. 6-10, deals with the identity of the Egyptian Lotus and says: "two species are figured on the monuments and tombs, N. Lotus, the white night-lotus (with broad petals rounded at the apex) and N. caerulea, the blue diurnal one (with acute petals)." I take it that the (creamy) white N. Lotus must be the "yelllow" waterlily of which you spoke the other day.
In a young Nymphaea flower-bud only the four sepals are visible from the outside. As the flower-bud opens a little the outside of the petals becomes visible between the sepals. If you wish to speak of the sepals and petals of the waterlilly collectively you may term them perianth-leaves.
The Asiatic Lotus, Nelumbo nucifera, appears not to have been known in Egypt before the advent of the Persians: "not until the Roman period did it find a place in Egyptian art".
Under separate cover I am sending you half an umbel of the Papyrus (Cyperus Papyrus) with the various parts duly labelled. The parts which you particularly wished to have identified were the involucral bracts of the umbel, or (general) bracts for short. Each umbel has a large number of primary rays, and each ray ends in a partial umbel with its (partial) bracts. Each ray of the partial umbel (secondary ray) ends in a compound spike of flowers.
There
Dr. Howard Carter,
2 Princes Gate Court,
S.W.7.
There is a pale tubular leaf-sheath at the base of each primary ray, and a much smaller one at the base of each secondary ray.
Yours faithfully,
T. A. Sprague B.Sc.
(T.A. Sprague)
Deputy Keeper of the Herbarium.
Umbel of the Papyrus (Cyperus Papyrus)
< >
Ray
bright green
pale straw
reddish
< >
Rays of umbel (of which there are a great number) - green.
(very thin and of great length)
from bracts of partial umbel (green)
Radial umbel
expanded apex of peduncle
Bracts of umbel (green hue fades to pale straw colour)
Four rays (secondary rays) of partial umbel (green)
peduncle (flowering stem) - green
flowers (yellowish)
< >
section of peduncle
Taper, increasing gradually in thickness towards the base
The White Night-lotus
Nymphaea Lotus
(with broad petals rounded at the apex)
< >
petals white tinged points
sepals green with white ray-like lines
the expanded apex of the peduncle yellow
peduncle green
The Diurnal blue lotus
Nymphaea Caerulea
Both from the tomb of Tehuti-hotep
El Bersheh.
Mid. Kingdom
< >
petals tinged blue
sepals green
the expanded apex of the peduncle yellow
peduncle green
DISTRIBUTION OF SPECIES FROM EGYPTIAN TOMB FORWARDED BY MR. HOWARD CARTER.
Many of the plants in this list have been widely cultivated for a long time and it is now hardly possible to state where they occurred as actual natives. Some of the cultivated varieties of these species do not occur at all in the wild state.
See Boodle Report
p.4. Carthamus tinctorius L. Widely cultivated and often recorded as an escape. Said to have probably originated in Arabia.
p.5. Centaurea depressa M.B. Egypt, etc.
p.7. Citrullus vulgaris Schrad. Widely cultivated in the Mediterranean Region; spontaneous and cultivated throughout Sudan and elsewhere in Tropical Africa.
p.8. Coriandrum sativum L. Very widely cultivated and frequent as an alien or escape from cultivation. Said to be wild in Palestine, Syria, Iraq, and Greece.
p.9 Cyperus papyrus L. Egypt, Sudan and Tropical Africa generally.
p.10 Ficus Sycomorus L. Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region and occurs frequently as an escape. Occurs wild in East and South Tropical Africa.
p.11. Grewia betulaefolia Juss. Arabia, S. Persia, Baluchistan, India,
Abyssinia, Sudan and Uganda.
See Nos. 342, 441, 506 & 562
p.15. Lens esculenta Moench. Widely cultivated in the Mediterranean Region and frequent as an escape.
p.16 Mimusops Schimperi Hochst. Abyssinia, Eritrea.
p.17. Olea europea L. Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean Region. Native country unknown.
p.18 Phoenix dactylifera L. Cultivated throughout the southern and eastern Mediterranean Region. Native country unknown.
p.19 Prunus Amygdalus Stokes. Said to be wild only in Afghanistan, Turkestan, Transcaucasia, Persia and Syria. Widely cultivated.
p.20. Punica Granatum L. Cultivated throughout the Mediterranean Region and often subspontaneous.
p.21 Salix Safsaf Forsk. Egypt; Sudan and East Africa southwards to Transvaal and Angola.
p.22 Thymbra spicata L. Crete, Greece, Cyclades, Thrace, Asia Minor, Syria, Palestine, Iraq.
p.23. Trigonella Foenum-graecum L. Egypt (native?) etc. Probably native in Iraq and Kurdistan (Sirjaev). Widely cultivated from antiquity.
p.26. Zizyphus Spina-Christi Willd. Egypt; Sudan, dry regions of Northern Africa from Mauritania to Arabia.
(August 28, 2009)
