Fet-Mats

Fet-Mats: The Mysterious Natural Mummy

Imagine stumbling upon a time capsule from the past, one that has been preserved for centuries in an unexpected and almost eerie way. This is exactly what happened when miners discovered Fet-Mats or Fat Mats (born Mats Israelsson; died 1677) in Sweden back in 1719. Could it be possible that a body could remain so well-preserved after all these years?

The Discovery and Identification

How did they find this natural mummy, and who was he really? The miners were working in a water-filled tunnel when they came across an intact dead body. It wasn’t until his former fiancée, Margaret Olsdotter, identified the body as Fet-Mats that the mystery began to unfold. Could it be that love endures even after death?

A Display of Curiosity

The body was put on display for all to see, and what they saw was quite remarkable. The body was covered in a substance called vitriol, which Linnaeus later stated would cause decay when evaporated. Was this some kind of ancient preservation technique or just a natural occurrence?

The Display’s Lifespan

The display of Fet-Mats remained for 30 years before it was finally buried in 1749. During that time, the body continued to fascinate and intrigue people who visited the site. How many stories could this mummy have told if only it could speak?

The Inspiration Behind Fet-Mats

Fet-Mats didn’t just remain a curiosity; he inspired a group of German romanticists, including Gotthilf von Schubert, Achim von Arnim, Johann Peter Hebel, Friedrich Rückert, and E.T.A. Hoffmann. Could it be that Fet-Mats was more than just a preserved body?

The Literary Legacy

Hoffmann, in particular, wrote the short story ‘Die Bergwerke zu Falun,’ which is deeply influenced by the legend of Fet-Mats. This story delves into themes of love, loss, and the supernatural, making it a perfect reflection of the mysterious nature of Fet-Mats himself. Could this mummy have been a harbinger of tales yet to be told?

The Enduring Mystery

Fet-Mats remains an enigma, a piece of history that continues to captivate and intrigue us. His story is not just about the preservation of a body but also about the power of love and the enduring legacy of those who have passed on. Could Fet-Mats be more than just a mummy?

So, the next time you hear about a natural mummy or come across an intriguing historical tale, remember Fet-Mats. He is not just a relic of the past but a symbol of mystery and inspiration that continues to captivate us today.