HENNA IN ANCIENT EGYPT

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An ancient cosmetic first developed in ancient Egypt, henna is more than just a beauty routine. Originating from the leaves of the flowering henna plant or Egyptian privet, henna has been found on mummies carbon dated to as far back as 3351 B.C. Often applied to the hair, skin, and nails, the ancient Kemetians and Egyptians used it to achieve tattoo-like designs on their skin, ginger-colored hair, and bright nails. Mummies of royalty and the nobility were discovered with the tips of their fingers still dyed a deep reddish-orange. Used by both men and women, henna designs appeared in the form of animals such as bulls, a symbol of status and virility, and on women with elaborate and creative designs. Later presented outside of Egypt as a state gift, Queen Mumtaz became the first Indian ruler to be decorated in henna, popularizing the art there in the 1600's.  Designs can include floral, large scale, bold, or even geometric patterns. Today, various forms of henna can be found around the world as temporary tattoos, in Morocco on doors as a way to ward off evil, in Sudan on brides during wedding celebrations, in Hindu bridal parties and more. Who says beauty is only skin deep?

For More Info: https://face2faceafrica.com/article/henna-designs-the-ancient-african-body-art-technique-that-is-in-great-demand-worldwide AND https://www-m.cnn.com/2018/03/02/health/egyptian-mummy-tattoos/index.html?r=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F

Photocredit: Metropolitan Museum of Art