Discovery and Technology
Researchers employed laser imaging to uncover detailed, previously invisible tattoos on 13th-century Peruvian mummies, highlighting the advanced artistry of the Chancay culture.
This non-destructive method, known as laser-stimulated fluorescence, illuminated the skin, revealing geometric designs such as triangles and diamonds, unseen to the naked eye.
Cultural Insights and Significance
The study offers a rare glimpse into the cultural practices and individual identities of the Chancay civilization, predating the Inca empire, through their body art.
Experts emphasize the importance of these findings in understanding ancient tattoos as forms of art and expression, providing insights into societal norms and beliefs.