9 Amazingly Well Preserved Tattoos

1.

This tattooed mummy is known as the Ice Man of Otzi. Although he could have been covered in markings at one point, these few soot tattoos are the only ones left. They were probably used in healing rituals for joint pain and arthritis.

2.

These smoked remains are still venerated in the Philippines. The higher the tattoo on the limbs, the higher place in society the person was while living.

3.

The 15th century headhunting Ibaloi of the mountain region of Kabayan covered their chests and backs with the elaborate inkwork of geometric shapes and creatures of prey. If they saw someone with more impressive tats on the battlefield, they would immediately retreat as it was seen as a bad omen.

4.

The tattoos, called "Ta moko," were part of the rituals surrounding the transition from childhood into adulthood. The more moko you had, the higher status in society you were.

5.

The swirling designs descended from the ancient Moche culture that once ruled the area and likely belonged to farmers of the Chimu agricultural groups who, at the time, were fighting the incoming Incans.

6.

Also known as the Ukok princess, her tattoos were maintained over time by the icy Russian weather she was buried under. The ink acted as symbols of her status and of the mythic tales she likely passed on.

7.

Shown on the arm of a 5th century BC ruler of the Russian steppes, the king and his comrades were inked with real and mythical menacing creatures.

8.

This figurine from the Nazca Region of Peru indicates that women were given these fertility designs in their delicate areas.

9.

Likewise, this figurine from the Neolithic Cucuteni-Tripolye culture (which existed about 7,000 years ago) led researchers to believe the ancient residents of the region were covered in these geometric designs.