Archaeologists uncover mummy tattoos using lasers

admin 2025年1月17日

science & technology, science & technology - expert

©(Michael Pittman via AP)

Vocabulary:

I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.

intricate /IN-tri-kit/

[adjective] – very detailed and complicated
The chef’s recipe required intricate steps to achieve the perfect blend of flavors.

knuckle /NUHK-uhl/

[noun] – one of the joints in the hand where your fingers bend, especially where your fingers join on to the main part of your hand
After hours of boxing practice, his knuckles were sore from the impact.

hierarchy /HAHY-uh-rahr-kee/

[noun] – a system in which people or things are arranged according to their importance
In the animal kingdom, many species establish hierarchies to maintain order in their groups.

complement /KOM-pluh-ment/

[verb] – to complete or enhance something by providing additional features or elements
The modern furniture design complements the minimalist architecture of the house.

inaccessible /in-uhk-SES-uh-buhl/

[adjective] – not easily reached, approached, or understood
Without proper training, the advanced features of the software seemed inaccessible to most users.

Article reading:

Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.

For millennia, tattoos have served as cultural markers and artistic expressions, with evidence dating back over 5,000 years. Recent advancements in non-invasive laser technology have enabled researchers to uncover intricate tattoo designs on mummies from Peru, specifically those belonging to the Chancay culture. This civilization thrived on Peru’s coast prior to the Inca Empire, around 1250 A.D. A study conducted on approximately 100 mummies revealed tattoos primarily on hands, knuckles, and forearms. Among these, four individuals displayed exceptional designs characterized by geometric shapes such as triangles and diamonds. These tattoos, invisible to the naked eye, were revealed through laser imaging that causes skin to emit a faint glow, enhancing visibility. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the study highlights how modern technology provides unprecedented access to ancient cultural artifacts.

The implications of these findings extend beyond artistic appreciation. Experts emphasize that the study of tattoos offers a rare glimpse into cultural practices, social hierarchies, and spiritual beliefs of ancient societies. Researchers like Michael Pittman from the Chinese University of Hong Kong noted the tattoos’ high craftsmanship, rivaling modern techniques. Additionally, archaeologists such as Lars Krutak and Martin Smith suggest that tattoo analysis complements the study of pottery, textiles, and stonework by offering insights into symbolic and abstract art forms otherwise inaccessible. The use of non-destructive technologies, such as lasers, is being lauded for preserving sensitive archaeological materials, marking a significant advancement in the study of historical artifacts.

Discussion Questions:

I will read each question. Then, please answer them.

Have you ever seen or learned about tattoos in a museum or on TV? If so, what was the most interesting thing you learned about them? If not, would you like to learn more about the history of tattoos? Why or why not?
Have you ever visited a museum with artifacts from ancient times? If yes, what was your favorite exhibit or artifact? If not, would you like to visit one? What would you hope to see?
Do you agree that modern technology, like lasers, is necessary to study historical artifacts?
Why do you think ancient people chose to place tattoos on their hands, knuckles, and forearms?
Why do you think art is an important part of every culture?

Summarization

Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.

Describe:

Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.

A.D.
cultural
design
ancient
modern technology