The Ancient Tattoos Found on Philippine Mummies

Deep in the mountains of northern Luzon, Philippines, the Kabayan caves preserve the mummified remains of people associated with the Ibaloy community. Their bodies were placed inside hollowed-out wooden coffins, and remarkably preserved tattoos can still be seen on their skin. The tattoos include geometric patterns as well as designs resembling lizards, snakes, scorpions and centipedes. Tattoo scholar Lars Krutak has connected some of these animal motifs with 19th-century ethnographic accounts describing their association with Ibaloy headhunting warriors and the idea of omen animals. Not all of the tattoos appear to have been connected to warfare. Circular designs found around the wrists have been interpreted by Krutak as possible solar discs, while some spiral or wheel-like designs have also been discussed in connection with the sun. These tattoos were more than decoration. They were part of a tradition connected to the body, social identity and cultural beliefs. Researchers have also used oral histories from local elders and historical ethnographic records alongside archaeological evidence to better understand the meaning of these designs. The Kabayan mummies therefore preserve more than human remains. Their tattoos provide a rare record of Ibaloy cultural traditions and the meanings communities once expressed through the human body. 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/archevault 📺 Main Channel: @Archevault