Preserved body of 17th Century noblewoman still wearing her clothes

06.06.2015 13:23

The body of a French noblewoman buried more than 350 years ago has been uncovered - and is so well preserved she still has most of her hair, skin and brain intact.

The remains, which were unearthed during the construction of a new convention centre in Rennes last March, are likely to belong to Louise De Quengo who died in 1656 while in her sixties.

Scientists say her body, still dressed in religious robes including shoes and cap, was found next to the heart of her husband, nobleman Toussaint Perrien.

It was customary in 17th Century France to donate the vital organs of the deceased to their loved ones or a religious institution, reports Le Figaro.

Louise De Quengo was likely gifted her husband's heart following his death, and then opted to be buried next to the organ.

Despite spending most of her life among Breton royalty, scientists believe she went to live in the convent of Saint-Joseph following her husband's death, where her remains were found.

Rather than being dressed in the finest silks and jewels, researchers say she was wearing a simple habit, coarse shirt, veil and several caps when her body was uncovered.

Her remains, measuring just 5ft tall, were found in a lead lined coffin along with another four similar caskets, which only contained skeletons.

In total there are believed to be around 800 graves at the convent, but none of them contain remains so well preserved as Louise's.

Rozenn Colleter, from the French National Institute for Preventative Archaeological Research said: 'We saw right away that there was a lot of volume, fabric, shoes.

Colleter also said that beneath the cape, they could distinguish 'hands that were holding a crucifix.'

After two scans and an autopsy, scientists were able to discover a bit about Louise de Quengo's medical history.

'With Louise, we had surprise after surprise,' said Fabrice Dedouit, a radiologist and medical examiner in Toulouse.

An autopsy revealed 'significant kidney stones' and 'lung adhesions', and that her husband's heart was taken out 'with real surgical mastery.'

The clothes, deteriorating from years of decay, have now been restored and are expected to be put on display. Meanwhile her corpse will be reburied in Rennes in a few months.

(dailymail.co.uk)