In a major innovation, researchers have found the most impressive complete set of tattoos on an 800-year-old Andean mummy. These elusive forms and unusual structures have scientists in the field scratching their heads. The mummy, which has been preserved for centuries, features distinct tattoos located on its face and arm, shedding light on the cultural practices of ancient civilizations.
These tattoos, which were seen on both cheeks and one wrist, have distinct designs. Three thick black lines extend from the ear to the lips on either side of the face. At the same time, one elaborate tattoo that looks like a letter ‘S’ runs up one wrist. The fact that these tattoos are found at all suggests these tattoos were meaningful to the person wearing them, we don’t know for certain what function they served.
Advanced Imaging Techniques Employed
To study these extremely ancient markings, researchers used several cutting-edge imaging methods. To process the NASA imagery, they employed infrared false-color analyses between 500 and 950 nanometers. This new method allowed researchers to penetrate that significant tattooed veil in 3D, without damaging the mummy. Non-invasive 950 nm w/b infrared reflectography revealed additional information about the tattoos’ construction.
X-ray fluorescence and μRaman spectroscopy were crucial in establishing the materials used to manufacture tattoos. With these techniques, scientists were able to detect pigments and other organic materials. Ultimately, this led them to dive further into learning how tattooing was done during that time. Used for accurate material analysis, a scanning electron microscope helped create a complete picture of the artifacts.
Cultural Significance and Future Research
Though it’s not absolutely clear what the tattoos represent, their careful placement on the woman’s face and arm speaks volumes that they were very special to her. This discovery not only highlights the artistry involved in ancient tattooing but raises questions about societal norms and beliefs within Andean cultures.
The results have now been published in the Journal of Cultural Heritage. They provide exciting new understanding of how art and identity related to one another in ancient societies. Researchers hope this study will inspire further investigations into the cultural significance of tattoos across different civilizations and time periods.