The Language of Tattoos :130 Symbols and What They Mean
The Language of Tattoos :130 Symbols and What They Mean
hardback
Published:
25 October, 2022
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Description
Tattoos are everywhere: one in three of us has at least one. Body art is one of the most popular ways of expressing our identity and beliefs.
But whether we’re aware of it or not when we choose a design to be permanently inked on our skin, a complex language of meanings lies behind the visuals we choose. A lotus flower, koi carp swimming upstream or a dragon rising towards the sun: in the language of tattoos these are all symbols of strength and overcoming adversity.
This book uncovers the meanings behind tattoo symbols, delving into the history of the most popular motifs that recur in many different tattoo styles, including tribal, traditional, Japanese and realistic. Over 130 symbols are grouped according to their meanings, whether it’s good luck, freedom, wisdom, power, spirituality or love.
Each symbol is illustrated with stunning, specially drawn visuals by acclaimed artist and tattooist Oliver Munden, and accompanied by an explanation by tattoo expert Nick Schonberger which delves into its history, significance and application in tattooing.
Both a visual delight and a fascinating insight into the rich cultural heritage of tattooing, this is the perfect book for anyone wanting to learn more about tattoo symbolism, in need of inspiration for their next tattoo, or who just loves tattoo art.
More Details
| Type | Book |
|---|---|
| ISBN13 | 9780711267862 |
| ISBN10 | 0711267863 |
| Number Of Pages | 224 |
| Item Weight | 1000 g |
| Publisher / Reseller | Quarto Publishing PLC |
| Format | hardback |
Media Reviews
“Lavish illustrations make it a great resource for anyone contemplating some new body ink, or who is curious about tattoo history and the meaning behind the hearts, devils, and animals snaking over the communal epidermis...The Language of Tattoos is an entertaining field guide to the expanding tattoo tapestry that surrounds us.”
* Foreword Reviews *
"FIVE STARS. Regardless of the reader’s initial preference about tattoos, reading The Language of Tattoos might change some minds or at least serve as a beacon of knowledge." * Manhattan Book Review *
GoodReads Reviews
Author's Bio
Oliver Munden is an illustrator and tattoo artist who has turned his hand to all manner of styles and applications for almost two decades. Vintage skate art, psychedelia, renaissance art, and most notably European, American and Japanese tattoo aesthetics are combined to create a recognisable signature style which has attracted many commercial clients as well as private clients in his work as a tattooist. He is the creator of the Tattoo Colouring Book (2013), Tattoo Flash Colouring Book (2017) and Tattoo Tarot card deck (2018). Nick Schonberger is a writer, blogger and critic on fashion, culture and music, based in New York. He is the co-author of TTT: Tattoo (2018) and The Graphic Art of Tattoo Lettering (2019).