Tattooing Introduction

Tattoos are so much more than just ink on skin; they are a testament to human culture, history, and personal expression. Tattooing has a long, rich, and diverse history spanning over thousands of years. Now, tattooing evolved from ancient rituals to more modern forms of self-expression! Today, we’re going to take a journey through time, and explore the deep cultural history of tattooing.

Ancient Tattooing Origins

One of the oldest art forms known to mankind is tattooing. The origins of tattooing have been traced back to ancient civilizations across the globe. Archaeologists discovered mummies in Egypt dating all the way back to 2000 BC with intricate tattoos on their bodies. These tattoos held significant religious, and spiritual importance, highlighting the importance of their connection to the afterlife.

Similarly, ancient Chinese civilization used tattoos to symbolize one’s social status. They also used tattoos as a form of identification of criminals. In Japan, the art of tattooing, known as “irezumi,” offered both spiritual, and decorative purposes. “Irezumi” directly translates to “inserting ink” and was sometimes seen as a way to offer spiritual aid and protection. Generally, Irezumi was reserved for the bodies of samurai and other warriors. In modern times, Irezumi is typically associated with the Yakuza. As a result, tattoos have become more and more taboo in Japanese culture. Some areas in the country will not allow tourists with any tattoos to come in or use their amenities!

Indigenous Culture

Many indigenous cultures have long-standing traditions surrounding tattoos, and the art of tattooing. For example, the Māori of New Zealand, use tattoos called “Tā Moko” to convey their tribal affiliations, and social status. In Polynesian cultures, tattoos represent a rite of passage for many. Each design is as unique as the person it’s on, and each tattoo has its own meaning. Tattoos in Polynesian culture would also be indicative of a person’s social status, genealogy, in addition, sexual maturity as well. Nearly everyone in this ancient society had tattoos! In Tonga and Samoa, the Polynesian tattoo style would develop into a highly refined art. Tongan warriors would be tattooed from the waist to the knees in intricate, geometrical designs. For the Tongan people, these tattoos carried significant cultural and social importance.

In ancient Samoa, tattooing played a large role in religion, and in warfare. Tattoo artists held a highly regarded and privileged position, which was usually hereditary. As noted, this position was held primarily by men, and during these tattooing rituals, up to 8 men would get tattooed at a time. Samoan warriors primarily received the tattoos; however, to clarify, Samoan women did also get ink! They would limit their designs to things like floral-like geometric patterns on the hands or lower parts of the body. Across north and south America, indigenous tribes like the Haida had their own traditions around tattoos. They too would range from religious symbolism to simply decorative pieces. Individuals used tattoos not only as a form of self-expression, but also to communicate their heritage and identity.

Western World Tattooing

Ancient Greece and Rome used tattoos for a completely different reason, to identify slaves or criminals. The practice of tattooing became highly stigmatized due to this being their primary purpose throughout this part in history. Despite all this, during the Age of Exploration, sailors and explorers from European countries adopted tattooing as a part of their journeys. They would use them as a way to identify themselves, or to document their adventures. As a matter of fact, this became such a common practice, that it eventually evolved into the traditional “sailor” tattoos of today, such as anchors, or swallows!

During the 19th century, traveling circuses and sideshow acts increased the popularity of tattoos in western culture by treating tattooed people as curiosities. After that, in the late 20th century, the aura of rebellion, and counterculture surrounding tattoos began to fade. They rapidly became one of the most popular, mainstream forms of self-expression.

Modern Day Tattoos

In today’s world, tattoos have almost completely lost their historical stigmas, and have become widely accepted in most cultures. In any case, tattoo artists still hold a well-respected status. The industry has continuously evolved into a more and more refined art form. Incredibly skilled artists have filled the tattooing world with meaningful, well-crafted designs. Contemporary tattoo culture is full of diversity, mixing the techniques and styles from many different cultures throughout the world! People who choose to adorn themselves with permanent art still use tattoos to signify important things in their lives.

Conclusion

In summary, tattooing’s rich cultural history reflects the diverse and creative nature of humanity. They span from ancient religious rituals, to today’s form of complete self-expression. As a result, tattoos have come a long way. A long history of stigmatization hasn’t prevented tattoos from surviving, as they simultaneously evolve through generations. People now celebrate them for their powerful communication and wonderful artistry. As our society continues to move forward, tattoos, too, will evolve and reflect the ever-changing tapestry of human culture and identity.