TATTOOS- MORE THAN THE EYES CAN SEE-

SIGNIFICANCE AND EVOLUTION

 CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION..............................................................................4

CHAPTER I-THE BEGINNING OF TATTOOS...........................5

1.1. OTZI THE ICEMAN.......................................................................5

1.2. THE PATH TO THE PRESENT..........................................................5

CHAPTER II – POPULAR STYLES THROUGHOUT TIME.....8

CHAPTER III – TOOLS USED TO CREATE TATTOOS

THROUGH TIME............................................................................11

CONCLUSIONS...............................................................................12

SOURCES.........................................................................................13
 INTRODUCTION

Since ancient times, people have shown interest in the human body, tried to
beautify it, to attract attention. From makeup and tattoos to cosmetic surgery, both
women and men have appealed and continue to appeal to change what they do not like
about their body, to improve it and make it more attractive. A person's physical
appearance is directly reflected on the perception he has of himself, in the identity he
creates in his relationships with others.
Tattoos convey an important message about the individual: it is a way of telling
the world who you are and what you believe in, a visual way with specific cultural and
social meanings. Tattoos are nowadays a very fashionable "accessory". In fact, they
record the greatest popularity this type of body painting has ever enjoyed. Body
changes transform the body and, with it, the identity we attribute to someone.
There are many people nowadays who cover their body with tattoos, some just
discrete ones, others entire parts of their bodies. It has become a fashion as well as a
statement for many of us nowadays, and as stated before also a form of self-
expression, a way to show the world who we are and how we are.
Yet, maybe, tattoos have not always had the same significance for the people
that wore one as well as for those around. Actually, even though tattoos seem to be in
fashion now, and one might think that they are a relatively new thing, judging by their
popularity, tattoos actually have a long history, going back to the times when human
beings lived and functioned in tribes.
Consequently, tattoos is a topic I have become interested in lately, although I
myself do not have one, and I find it fascinating how so many people are so caught
into this, almost like a religion for some of them, a way of expressing themselves no
matter what the situation. I feel, though, that the initial significance of tattoos has
changed, maybe now it is more an individual thing rather than a symbol of social
status.
My paper is structured into several chapters, mainly focusing on the history of
tattoos, as well as their significance then and now, on what tattoos mean for some
people and the reasons why some people wear them.

3
 CHAPTER I-THE BEGINNING OF TATTOOS

Tattooing has been practiced across the globe since at least Neolithic times, as
evidenced by mummified preserved skin, ancient art and the archaeological record.
Both ancient art and archaeological finds of possible tattoo tools suggest tattooing was
practiced by the Upper Palaeolithic period in Europe. However, direct evidence for
tattooing on mummified human skin extends only to the 4th millennium BC.
The oldest discovery of tattooed human skin to date is found on the body of
Ötzi the Iceman, dating to between 3370 and 3100 BC. Other tattooed mummies have
been recovered from at least 49 archaeological sites, including locations in Greenland,
Alaska, Siberia, Mongolia, western China, Egypt, Sudan, the Philippines and the
Andes. These include Amunet, Priestess of the Goddess Hathor from ancient Egypt (c.
2134–1991 BC), and multiple mummies from Siberia including the Pazyryk culture of
Russia and from several cultures throughout Pre-Columbian South America.
1.1. OTZI THE ICEMAN
Otzi the Iceman was discovered in September 1991. His nickname comes from the
location he was found in the Otzal Alps. His body has naturally mummified and preserved,
making him Europe’s oldest human mummy.
Otzi’s body has a total of 61 tattoos in
various different locations, with the majority of
these ink inscriptions located on his legs. Close
examination of the markings on the mummy
indicate that soot or fireplace ash were used to
create the tattoos.
While Otzi may be evidence of the first
tattoos known to mankind, other eras and ages
throughout history reveal a long and rich history
of tattooing. There is evidence of this from over 49 different locations around the world,
where tattooed mummies and remains have been discovered. Locations where tattooing
practices have been recorded on human remains, include: Alaska, Mongolia, Greenland,
Egypt, China, Sudan, Russia, and the Philippines. All of these discoveries link to different
periods of time throughout ancient history. Some of these date back to 2100 BC.

1.2. THE PATH TO THE PRESENT

And although it has long been assumed that such tattoos were the mark of
prostitutes or were meant to protect the women against sexually transmitted diseases, I
personally believe that the tattooing of ancient Egyptian women had a therapeutic role

4
and functioned as a permanent form of amulet during the very difficult time of
pregnancy and birth. This is supported by the pattern of distribution, largely around
the abdomen, on top of the thighs and the breasts, and would also explain the specific
types of designs, in particular the net-like distribution of dots applied over the
abdomen. During pregnancy, this specific pattern would expand in a protective
fashion in the same way bead nets were placed over wrapped mummies to protect
them and "keep everything in." The placing of small figures of the household deity
Bes at the tops of their thighs would again suggest the use of tattoos as a means of
safeguarding the actual birth, since Bes was the protector of women in labour, and his
position at the tops of the thighs a suitable location. This would ultimately explain
tattoos as a purely female custom.
Also, at the very beginning, not really a tattoo in the sense of today, but rather a
form of body painting, was the use of the blood of the animal ne had just killed to
paint themselves various symbols- probably a sign of power, to show others that you
are strong and capable and that you conquered the beast and killed it.
Obviously, a bit later, when people started living in a more organized system-
the tribe, tattoos might have been a symbol of the tribe you belonged to, as well as be
used at certain ceremonial events, such as weddings, deaths or rites of passage.
Then, and again this is not a tattoo per se, but throughout history there were
also moments when a certain regime was marking people’s body, not using ink, but
rather hot iron to mark a certain status of that person, for example in the case of
slaves. As I said, this is not really tattoo, but it is in a way in the same direction of
body marking/ painting or modification.
As years passed, tattoos came to be associated with rather low-class people,
such as criminals for example. For many of them it was quite a fashion and probably
also a sign of power, in their attempt to impose themselves against the others convicts
in the prison. So there was this impression, at least in our country, whenever someone
saw a person wearing a tattoo, that that person was probably low-life and might have
spent some time in prison. And most of the time this was not a misconception, as it
was quite true in most cases.
Then, there was a transition from this statement of the people that were usually
criminals, outcast, or not well seen by the society they lived in towards tattoos being a
statement of the liberty of expression and will, mostly worn by teenagers who were
quite rebellious in nature. Most of them used to have a tattoo done, as a form of
rebellion against almost any kind of authority- school, parents etc. As most of the
time, both parents and school authorities regarded the wearing of tattoos as being
something indecent, and going against any dressing code, wearing a tattoo was
forbidden. Teenagers felt constrained by this kid of laws, which they felt would
contradict their freedom of expression, so they wore them as a form of protest, as well
5
as expression.
Still somehow, related to this idea of rebellion as well as self-expression and a
sign of identification there have appeared tattoos related to gangs. There are plenty of
gangs that wear certain tattoos that show you belong to a certain group having certain
ideology and principles.
Much later on, as times became less harsh, tattoos started being seen as a form
of art and self-expression. Today, there are plenty of artists who specialise in the art of
body painting as well as tattooing to such an extent that nowadays there are even
competitions and festivals dedicated to this body art. Each year, they organize such
events on a local, national and even international level and there are dozens and even
hundreds of artists that participate. Moreover, with the extension of the internet
nowadays, these artists can also promote their art all around the globe, having
galleries and not rarely promoting what could be seen as almost a philosophy. For
these artists, tattoos are not just a form of art through which they give way to their
creative process, but also a philosophy of life, almost a religion. Most of these artists
are very proud of their talent and work and some of them even have certain
particularities of their work that their work is actually easily recognized. They hand
and work are so precise and they also use certain symbols and symbolism and create
intricate designs and their work is thus recognized, appreciated and valued for what it
is.
So you see how much has this art of tattooing evolved throughout the years to a
point where now many people wear one, no matter the social status or the position in
society one might have. Nowadays you can see managers or directors, doctors, or even
teachers wearing a tattoo. It is true that most of the time that tattoo was made in their
youth, but still it was well chosen, many times with significance. And, what is more,
the attitude of the others around has changed. Now when you see someone wearing a
tattoo you no longer consider that vulgar, poor judgement or young foolishness, you
no longer see that as a clear sign that that person once spent time in prison. Wearing a
tattoo has almost become like wearing a jewel or any other kind of garment, and
people no longer consider that to be necessarily a bad sign.

6
 CHAPTER II – POPULAR STYLES THROUGHOUT TIME

Tattoos were not very common or socially acceptable until the mid-20th century. Up
until this time, they were reserved for a small population, mainly those in the entertainment
industry. Fully tattooed people became a popular attraction in and of themselves.

2.1 John O’Reilly

One of the most famous tattooed people from the 1800s

was John O’Reilly. His elaborate and complete body art made
him a popular feature in dime museums and the circus, where his
tattoos attracted and amazed the audience.
John O’Reilly was known as the “Tattooed Irishman” and
he had a variety of intricate tattoos covering his whole body. 
One of the earliest mentions of O’Reilly’s tattoos was in
an article from the Brooklyn Daily Eagle. The issue, released on
February 22, 1887, highlights his performance at a boxing match.
They mention his tattoos are “hideous” and a reflection of his
“barbarous practices.”

2.2 Emma de Burgh

Emma de Burgh was a famous tattooed lady in the entertainment
industry in the late 1880s. She worked alongside her husband Frank de
Burgh, and both were inked by the same tattoo artist as John O’Reilly. De
Burgh and her husband also became very popular performing in the
sideshow world within Europe.
They appeared in Berlin, Germany in 1891 and continued to amaze
the European crowds for some years after. The design of their tattoos had
many religious connotations, including links to the Last Supper and The
Calvary.

2.3 TATTOOS THROUGH THE 20TH CENTURY

Throughout the 20th century, popular styles of tattoo have evolved and changed. To
examine the evolution of ink in more detail, we have broken it up into decades. Let us take a
closer look at the art form evolution of tattoos in western culture over the last hundred years.

7
 1910s- At the beginning of the 20th century, the majority of tattoos were found on
circus performers or sailors. Tattoos were used to tell someone’s personal story, as well as
their professions. For example, it was common for a sailor to have an anchor tattoo. Within
the sailing community, tattoos also became a mark of belonging. Young sailors would be
tattooed after joining, almost like an initiation ceremony, to welcome them on board.
From here, the traditional art form continued to grow and had somewhat more of a
practical purpose. Many of the tattoos were used for identification purposes if sailors fell
overboard or drowned. Seamen would get tattoos from the different ports that they sailed to.
The tattoos symbolized the different destinations as well as the length of their journey.
A turtle tattoo would mean that a sailor had crossed the equator and a swallow tattoo
symbolized a journey of 5,000 miles.
1920s- Throughout the 1920s, cosmetic tattoos became very popular among women.
Many would get popular makeup trends tattooed on their faces, as makeup was too expensive
to buy. Common makeup tattoos included eyebrows and lip liner.
Traditionally designed tattoos were still less common throughout society and were not
very socially acceptable. It was still mainly the so-called outcasts, such as circus performers,
sailors, and criminals, who sported tattoos. As tattoos were so socially unacceptable, most
women would keep their cosmetic tattoos a secret.
1930s- Social security numbers appeared in the 1930s and everyone was told to
memorize their personal number. Many resorted to tattooing their social security numbers
onto their bodies so they would always have access to it. However, tattoos were still not
socially accepted. Those who got a social security number tattoo did so more out of necessity
rather than desire. Those with a social security tattoo were not viewed in the same way as
people with more decorative and personal tattoos. Tattoos were still only accepted
on performers, sailors, and criminals. Not on upstanding members of society. The 1930s saw
new theories across society, which linked tattoos with repressed sexual desires. Albert
Parry released a book, arguing that the whole process of getting a tattoo is essentially sexual.
With literature like this circulating, it is no surprise that tattoos were taboo throughout this
decade.
1960s- Tattoo parlours in New York were blamed for an increase in hepatitis
throughout the 1960s. While this may or may not have been true, it certainly created a
negative stigma around the tattoo industry. This meant a lot of people steered clear of getting
tattooed throughout this decade.
However, the 60s saw an increase of tattooed idols in the media, with famous
musicians like Janis Joplin going under the needle. Celebrities flocked to Lyle Tuttle, who
was one of the best and most reputable tattoo artists at the time. Patriotic tattoos dropped in
popularity, thanks to the Vietnam War. The classic skull and crossbones designs become
particularly popular, especially among bikers.

8
 1970s- The 1970s saw tattoos really becoming more mainstream and popular. No
longer were they reserved for the outcasts of society, now regular people wanted to get them
too. Peace symbols and messages of peace were particularly popular in this decade.
The 70s also saw a new style, with detailed and intricate designs, gaining popularity.
Full sleeve tattoos and bodysuits began emerging on young people engaged in the
counterculture.
2010s- So far, the 2010s have seen trends related to both the design and the placement
of tattoos. Small tattoos in unusual places, like the fingers or behind the ears are now very
popular. Many people are opting for quirky and creative designs.
One of the most popular designs for a small finger tattoo at the moment is a novelty
moustache. Other popular trends include the infinity symbol, feathers, and the ever-popular
tribal tattoos.

9
 CHAPTER III – TOOLS USED TO CREATE TATTOOS
THROUGH TIME

Not only have social perceptions and

popular designs changed over time, so too have
the tools and inks used to give tattoos. Prior to
modern-day tattoo guns, tattoo tools were made
out of a variety of different materials.
The tattoo tools used in Polynesia require
two people to make a tattoo. These tools consist
of a simple chisel and a hammer. The tattoo
artists make a series of little cuts in the skin. The
ink is then hammered directly into the skin where
the cuts have been made. This method is
commonly known as ‘Stick and Poke‘.
Similar techniques are seen in tribal communities, where the culture of tattoos reflects
a rite of passage. Ancient Egyptian tattoo needles were thought to be made from bronze.
Needles came in different sizes, in order to create both intricate and basic designs.
The first tattoos used homemade inks. These inks were likely made from ash or soot,
mixed with oil or breast milk. Samoan tattoo ink is traditionally made from the candlenut
which is left to smoulder on a hot fire. Soot is then collected from the burning nut and mixed
with sugar and water.
The tattoo guns that are used today came from more humble beginnings in 1891. The
first electric tattoo machine was patented by Samuel O’Reilly. The design was based on
a modified version of the electric pen, created by Thomas Edison. The arrival of the electric
tattoo machine saw a steady increase in the popularity of tattoos.
Inks used in the guns were created
using geological of mineral sources. Black
ink was made using iron oxide or carbon,
and cinnabar was used to make red.
Different shades of orange, red, and yellow
were made using different cadmium
compounds
Recent, modern technology has seen
a shift away from mineral-based pigments.
Organic pigments are now more commonly
used. Modern-day inks also contain a
variety of fillers, binding agents and preservatives.

10
11
 CONCLUSIONS

Tattoos are viewed very differently by different people. Some are all for
expressing their personalities through permanent ink on their own body and others are
totally against it. Then there are those who are in the middle about tattoos.
Along with those for and against tattoos, there is the question of if tattoos should
be considered art. There are many different museums that have exhibits dedicated to
tattoos, like the Royal Ontario Museum and the Virginia Museum for Fine Arts.
Tattoos are not necessarily horrible things that should define a person and their
ability to do their work properly, but sadly they are. People are so quick to judge others
and especially when it is with something expensive, like tattoos. Tattoos do not effect
anybody, unless it is purposefully trying to offend people, then that is another story.
Tattoos are just ink, nobody, but the person it is on, has to deal with it for the rest of their
lives.
Personally, I think that tattoos are just a form of expression, a personal unique way
to express and share something about yourself with the rest of the world. As long as it
something tasteful and of common sense, I do not think that the wearers should be
criticized or considered as offensive and low-life, or as being less educated than the rest
just because of a tattoo.

12
 SOURCES

 https://authoritytattoo.com/history-of-tattoos/

 https://pasefika.com/Culture/Article/19/sa/Meaning-of-Tatau-1

 https://tatring.com/getting-tattooed/A-Brief-Introduction-to-Tattoo-Art

 https://www.businessinsider.com/new-tattoo-found-on-otzi-the-iceman-2015-1

 https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/amazing-tattoo-designs-and-their-meanings/

 https://www.cloakanddaggerlondon.co.uk/tattoo-styles/traditional/

13