(ORDO NEWS) — Egyptian scientists are trying to understand what the tattoos on the bodies of mummified women mean.
The mummies were found near the Nile River, and many had various tattoos on their lower backs. After long research, experts came close to solving the mystery.
In their scientific work, the researchers report that mummies of women were found on the territory of Deir el-Medina.
Many have tattoos on their lower back, buttocks and thighs. Until now, it is not clear whether this was a tribute to fashion, or mystical rituals were performed in this image.
A lot of time was spent on researching these drawings on the body: stripes, diamond patterns, symmetrical ornaments, etc.
Among the various patterns, it was possible to recognize the symbol of the god Horus.
It is believed that it was applied to the body to attract well-being and to heal from diseases. Some of the tattoos symbolize the Nile River, its vital energy.
It became known that pregnant women also got tattoos. They worshiped a god who facilitated childbirth according to their pagan beliefs.
In the context of New Kingdom artifacts and texts, tattoo images were visually associated with images of women as sexual partners, pregnant women, midwives, and mothers participating in postpartum rituals used to protect mother and child.
On some mummies, a tattoo in the form of dots was found on the shoulders and neck. They were also done with meaning, scientists claim.
Researchers assume that mothers put such points on their bodies. Perhaps they believed that in this way they were protecting themselves from evil spirits.
What is interesting is the fact that scientists also discovered patterns on clay figurines found along the Nile.
They were identical to those tattoos that were present on mummies. Most likely, the figurines were used in magical rituals.
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