The Mummies of Urumchi

Fascinating book by Elizabeth Wayland Barber about the 4,000 year-old mummies found in western China. They are very well preserved, especially their clothing. Some are over six feet tall, with blond or red hair, round eyes and otherwise Caucasian rather than Asian features. Their textiles are quite beautiful and have been extensively studied. Many are similar to tartan plaid.

Starting on March 27, 2010, some of these mummies will be part of an exhibit called "Secrets of the Silk Road" at the Bowers Museum in Santa Ana, CA.