Infrared images reveal hidden tattoos on Egyptian mummies

The images of eyes, crosses and more on 7 females may challenge ideas about the practice

mummy tattoo

A researcher checks an ancient Egyptian mummy’s shoulder for tattoos with an infrared scanner. Tattoos revealed here include two stylized eyes that symbolized protection and a hieroglyph portraying a bent papyrus plant with water.

A. Austin

SAN DIEGO — Modern technology is illuminating tattoos on mummified, ancient Egyptians that until now had gone unnoticed.