With a rise in videos of influencers getting their tattoos removed, we’re seeing a lot of discourse online around whether tattoos should be considered a trend or a lifestyle. When thinking about this it’s important to remember that tattooing exists outside of modern Western culture. It’s understandable for new artists to think that as the industry experiences a slowing down after the post-COVID boom, that tattooing is suffering, but this fails to consider the rich history of the industry - so let’s consider it for a second.
The earliest recorded tattoos
The earliest known tattoos belong to Otzi the Iceman who lived between 3370 and 3100 BCE, and two Egyptian mummies dated between 3351 and 3017 BCE. Found frozen in the Alps between Austria and Italy, Otzi’s tattoos are the oldest known examples of tattooing on human skin. He had 61 tattoos on his lower back and legs which are thought to have been for therapeutic or symbolic purposes, related to pain relief or spiritual beliefs.
The Egyptian mummies had tattoos featuring depictions of a wild bull and a Barbary sheep on a male mummy and S-shaped motifs on a female mummy. The discovery of tattoos on these mummies provides evidence of tattooing practices in Ancient Egypt, with the designs found representing a more artistic and symbolic form of tattooing more similar to modern day tattoos.
In Ancient Greece, tattoos were sometimes used as a punishment or to identify slaves and while these are the earliest confirmed examples, researchers believe that tattooing may be even older.
Tattoos in other cultures
Tattooing exists outside of Western culture and holds deep cultural significance in numerous societies worldwide, varying from symbolic adornment to markers of social status or spiritual beliefs.
- Polynesian Tattoos - In Polynesian cultures, tattoos are deeply connected to identity, genealogy and social standing. Traditional Polynesian tattoos are often intricate, geometric designs that tell the story of a person’s lineage and accomplishments. Polynesian tattoos aren’t just decorative but are seen as powerful symbols of their cultural heritage.
- Japanese Irezumi - Japanese tattooing, or Irezumi, has a long history with designs often drawn from folklore and mythology. Irezumi can be elaborate, covering large portions of the body and are sometimes associated with the yakuza - the Japanese mafia. Irezumi does also have a broader cultural significance with the designs reflecting traditional Japanese art and storytelling.
- Māori Mako - Known as Tā moko, Māori tattoos are a traditional form of tattooing with deep cultural and spiritual significance in Māori culture. Tā moko is used to tell a person’s story similarly to Polynesian tattoos. Tā moko is considered a sacred practice, with the head being the most sacred part of the body and the practice is a way for them to connect with their ancestors. Designs are intricate and unique with specific patterns and motifs that carry meaning and tell a story. Traditionally, Tā moko was created using chisels and mallets with pigment made from charcoal, ash and oil.
- Sak Yant Tattoos in Thailand - Sak Yant tattoos in Thailand are believed to offer spiritual protection and are often associated with Buddhism. These tattoos feature sacred patterns and designs, sometimes incorporating Buddhist mantras. These tattoos are typically applied by Buddhist monks or practitioners and are thought to imbue the wearer with specific qualities.
Tattoos represented the alternative
Tattoos in Western culture began as a symbol of being different - something that dates back to the circuses of the 1800s. Tattoos were a significant feature of sideshows and freak shows, where people with unique physical attributes, like tattoos, were displayed for entertainment. This is a perfect example of tattoos existing within the fringes of society. Tattoos have become increasingly accepted over time, and circus imagery, including traditional circus tattoos, remain popular designs to this day.
Tattooing stands the test of time
Tattooing has existed for almost as long as civilization has, so when you look at the history, the current climate of the industry seems a mere blip in comparison. The history and cultural significance of tattooing transcends what’s ‘trendy’. While it may seem like the industry is struggling, it will always hold significance and importance to many and will continue to do so long after us!
