Archaeologists from universities in the United States and Denmark found, deep within the Actun Uayazba Kab cave in Belize, two small stone tools dated between 250 and 900 AD that could be the first Maya tattoo instruments ever discovered.
The pieces are made of obsidian and have an elongated shape with a sharp tip. Researchers believe they were used to create permanent tattoos by piercing the skin and introducing pigments with them.
Interestingly, these tools are not regular knives but stone fragments specifically modified for this purpose. Under microscopic analysis, researchers found wear marks consistent with repeated use on skin, as well as traces of a black pigment, possibly carbon-based ink or soot.
From historical sources, we know that the Maya practiced tattooing, but until now no tools had been found to confirm it. The Spanish documented that tattoos were symbols of bravery for men and beauty for women, and that they featured animal figures such as snakes or eagles, sometimes also incorporating sacred glyphs. On some occasions, they were also used as punishment, to mark the faces of thieves.
We're so much more civilized. Our criminals pay for their own tattoos.
The Wombat has Rule 5 Sunday: San Romero Knights ready and awaiting clicks at The Other McCain.
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