Explore the rich and fascinating global history of tattoos and how ink has united cultures and told stories throughout the ages.

From Neolithic body-painting to the bold statements of modern tattoo culture, Tattoo traces how humans have used their skin as a canvas for identity, status, and storytelling since the dawn of time.

Discover the world’s oldest tattoos on Ötzi the Iceman and the ritualistic designs of Indigenous Arctic communities. Witness the rise and fall of tattooing in the ancient world—from sacred symbols in Egypt and Mesopotamia to marks of punishment in Greece and Rome. Follow the art form through medieval Europe, where Christian pilgrims bore inked crosses, and to Edo Japan, where elaborate irezumi designs flourished. See how tattoos became synonymous with sailors, soldiers, and subcultures—from Polynesian voyages and Japanese Yakuza to the punk, biker, and hip-hop movements of the 20th century. And see how numerous designs and traditions have evolved throughout history and around the globe, and the ways in which they have influenced modern tattoo styles and trends.

With the invention of the electric tattoo machine and the explosion of tattoo conventions, reality shows, and fine-art exhibitions, tattoos have never been more visible—or more varied. Whether you are already inked or just curious, this book is your guide to the history, meaning, and enduring power of tattoos.