Deg is an endangered custom of tattooing, often used as a way to remember important people and events. As the practice of traditional tattooing declines, this project led by The American Academic Institute in Iraq (TAARI), will document the knowledge of Deg held by its elderly practitioners, to enable greater understanding of the roots of this tradition and its significance and role in local society.

The project will focus on the ancient province of Babylon, collecting and documenting images of the tattoos and the stories of the women who wear them, which will be shared in an exhibition in the Museum of Babylon.