Mummification was a custom of preserving bodies of deceased performed by ancient Egyptians. Before pharaohs, deceased where buried in the desert where sand, temperature and dehydration preserved the bodies. With development of architecture and tombs, came artificial ways of keeping bodies from decay. It was believed that the spirit can re-enter the body in the afterlife and destruction of a body (or mummy) meant destruction of a spirit (unless statue of deceased was provided for spirit to inhabit it). The whole process of mummification took up to 70 days. During that period the body was washed and internal organs removed, with exception of heart. Other vital organs were placed in separate containers called canopic jars. The brain was drawn through the nose, using metal rod for head to remain intact. After removal of organs and intestines body was dehydrated in mixture of crushed salt for 40 days, skin rubbed with oils, cavity packed with lichen or bandages to reduce shrinkage, then wrapped in bandages, that could use up to 375 square meters of linen.
The most renown Polish cavalry formation, unconquered on the field of battle at 17th century. Comprised out of high born and rich recruits, wearing characteristic suits of armor that included single wing or pair of wings fixed to saddle rear or at the back of armor. There are several theories stating purpose of these wings, one of them states wings were used for psychological warfare which scared horses of an enemy during charges, or protected rider from attack from behind during close combat. Charges of Hussar units started slowly in loose formations, to reduce effectiveness of enemy artillery, what made quick turn round and retreat possible. When commander noticed an opportunity for a successful charge, order was given to proceed into trot, formation and ranks were tightened, accelerating into gallop and canter. Such sequence was used for effective breaking of enemy ranks. Hussar's armor consisted of helmet, called "szyszak" scale breastplate, vambraces and bevor. Hussar weapons were: saber; long (approx 63 inches), saber-like weapon called "koncerz" used mostly for stabbing which gave raider long reach from horseback; horseman's pick; lance (approx 19 feet long).
