Last year, a mound of congealed fat captured the imagination of the nation. And now people will be able to squirm at the sight of the Whitechapel “fatberg” in the comfort of their own homes.
The Museum of London has launched a webcam offering an internet live-stream of one of its prize exhibits, a small slice of the 130-tonne lump of congealed fat and detritus that blocked Whitechapel’s Victorian sewers in 2017.
The obstruction was made of a mixture of oils, fats, faeces and sanitary products. A small section of the fatty mass went on temporary display at the Museum of London in February, and proved such a hit with visitors that it has been acquired for the museum’s permanent collection.
The museum’s sample has reportedly changed colour, oozed “sweat”, and become a breeding ground for flies. Since being removed from public display last month, it has produced an “unusual toxic mould in the form of visible yellow pustules”, according to the Guardian.
“The samples of the Whitechapel fatberg have proven to be very powerful museum objects, provoking strong feelings of fascination and disgust in our visitors while encouraging them to reflect on a serious challenge facing the city,” the Museum of London’s Vyki Sparkes said.
