Tattoo art has exploded in our culture over the last two decades. As more and more people get tattoos many wonder where did this art form originate. While sailors, pirates, and bikers all are known to get tattooed, the origins are much older. In fact, for a long period of time, it was believed that the ancient Egyptians were the first to create this art form.
Ancient Egyptians and Tattoos
It was believed for a long period of time that the ancient Egyptians originated tattoo art. When ruins were dug up, many paintings and mummified bodies included tattoo art, however, it was strange that these tattoo markings were only found on females and only on a certain caste. For a short period of time it was believed that these markings were a sort of scarlet letter and that these women with tattoo art were prostitutes, however, these markings which were dots in web formations around the thighs, stomach and pelvic area were actually tattooed on for protection during pregnancy.
To learn more about the origins of tattoo art the Smithsonian Magazine has a fascinating article on the subject. You will be surprised how old tattoos really are. You can read the article at our main website at the following link: http://www.smithsonianmag.com/
Quincy Jones, Forbidden City, Tattoo Art, Diane Arbus, Cheetah Facts, National Archives
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