The Divine Bestiary...

Here's a publication that might be of possible interest to some members. The book is entitled: 'The Animal World of the Pharaohs', by Patrick F. Houlihan. The American University in Cario Press. 1996. ISBN #: 0-500-01731-X . Library of Congress Catalogue Card #: 96-60237. It's well known that the ancient Egyptians venerated many animals, including snakes. The Serpent Goddesses Renenutet and Merseger, for example. Horned Vipers are depicted on many heiroglyphs(see Fig. # 121 on page 169) and several deities are represented in the form of Cobras. Apparently, The Brooklyn Museum has a papyrus roll from the Late Dynastic Period(about 700 to 330 BC.) that is 'a comprehensive list' of all the harmful snakes known at that time, which includes descriptions of their colours, lengths, names, the particular deities that they were associated with and case by case rememdies on how to treat snakebites(how to dress the wound, which drugs to administer and the chances of recovery). This may be one of the earliest 'venomous snake identification and snakebite treatment manual' that I know of. Perhaps some of the Venomland members who live in the New York City area might have an opportunity to view this artifact and let us know more about it...? Sincerely, Jon Davidson .

Looks like an interesting read Jon, I'll see if I can find a copy. Thanks for bringing that to my attention. If I ever find myself in Brooklyn, I'll make it a point to see that scroll as well.

You're most welcome, Scotty. In my view, the Houlihan text is a quality publication( 153 black and white photographs; many colour plates). You should enjoy Chapter Seven in particular(which is entitled): Serpents, Scorpions and Scarabs. I've also just received a copy of: 'Divine Creatures, Animal Mummies in Ancient Egypt', Edited by Salima Ikram. This text includes a 'Selected List of Animal Cemeteries' that notes the various locations where the remains of snakes(and many other kinds of animals) have been found. In my spare time, I've been reading Chapter Eight of this book(entitled): Sobek, Lord of the Land and the Lake, by Edda Bresciani("Sobek, green of feathers, alert looking, broad chested, sparkling, coming out from the legs and the tail of the Great One, who is in splendour."). Both books are readily available on abebooks.com Sincerely, Jon Davidson .