Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Winter 2022
Keywords
Ötzi, Egypt, Mesopotamia, mummy, therapeutic
Abstract
As one of the most permanent markings of culture etched into human skin, tattooing provides a unique view into the beliefs and practices of the human species. Tattooing has existed throughout human history, but it can be difficult to establish its true purpose and antiquity within early cultures. This is due in part to biological degradation and misclassification of the material implements of tattooing, as well as the scarcity of tattooed physical human remains. Archeological context and the identification of possible material artifacts associated with tattooing, along with the examination (or re-examination) of physical human remains for evidence of tattooing, will help place tattooing's presence and purpose within a historical context. For this paper, I reviewed ten scientific journal articles on the subject of tattooing within early cultures. Current investigations into the proposed purposes of early tattoos focus on iconographic and symbolic use, as well as cross-cultural therapeutic application. Tattoos, as instruments that transmit culture, can provide new insights into ancient societies and thereby reveal new avenues for exploring the visual language of Paleolithic times.
Recommended Citation
Hawken, Kate, "Tattooing Antiquity, Symbolism, and Practice in Early Cultures" (2022). Anthropology Department Scholars Week. 6.
https://cedar.wwu.edu/anthropology_scholarsweek/6
Subjects - Topical (LCSH)
Tattooing--History--To 1500; Body art--History--To 1500
Genre/Form
articles
Type
Text
Rights
Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.
Language
English
Format
application/pdf