More detailed than modern ones: scientists made an unexpected discovery about the tattoos of ancient Peruvians

15.01.2025/14/30 XNUMX:XNUMX    481
Chancay, tattoo, body art, drawings, patterns, thin lines, art, culture, Peru, mummy, archaeologists, archaeology, ink, skin
Photo: Michael Pittman and Thomas G Kaye
| Archaeologists have examined over 100 mummies from Peru

 

Archaeologists have examined more than 100 mummies from Peru and discovered that members of the Chancay culture adorned their bodies with incredibly detailed tattoos. However, this body art was reserved for the elite.

Archaeologists studying 1200-year-old mummies from Peru have discovered ancient tattoos that stand out for their detail. Geometric patterns found on the remains of people from the Chancay culture consisted of extremely fine lines, indicating the cultural significance of tattoos in pre-Hispanic times, writes IFLScience.

Tattoos, mostly geometric patterns with triangular shapes, have been found on several members of the Chancay civilization, which once flourished along the Peruvian coast. Some of the drawings also depict animals, adding variety to the complex body art. Archaeologists suggest that the ancient artists used cactus needles or pointed animal bones to "rub" the ink into the skin, a method that is inferred from similar regional artifacts.

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Chancay, tattoo, body art, drawings, patterns, thin lines, art, culture, Peru, mummy, archaeologists, archaeology, ink, skin Fullscreen
Tattoos, mostly geometric patterns with triangular shapes, have been found on several members of the Changkai civilization.
Photo: Image courtesy of Michael Pittman

Recent technological advances have allowed these tattoos to be studied in unprecedented detail. Using laser-stimulated fluorescence (LSF), researchers from the Chinese University of Hong Kong obtained high-contrast images of the preserved skin, revealing surprisingly fine lines measuring 0,1 to 0,2 millimeters wide. Lead researcher Dr. Michael Pittman said this level of detail surpasses current tattooing techniques.




Dr Pittman said only a handful of the more than 100 people studied had such detailed tattoos, suggesting they were reserved for an elite segment of the population. The laborious process required exceptional skill, time and patience, suggesting they were associated with high social status or ceremonial rituals.

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In addition to tattoos, the Chankai are known for their textiles and pottery, which feature similar geometric motifs. Interestingly, tattoos display even greater detail than these other art forms, indicating their cultural importance.

These findings not only deepen our understanding of the Chankai civilization, but also demonstrate their mastery of complex crafts. Dr. Pittman noted that the most sophisticated art of the Chankai can now be found in their tattoos, hinting at the significant role that body art played in their lives.

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