Tattoo Dictionary
Product details
- ISBN 9781846016608
- Dimensions: 152 x 216mm
- Publication Date: 06 Aug 2026
- Publisher: Octopus Publishing Group
- Publication City/Country: GB
- Product Form: Hardback
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Discover the true meanings behind over 200 popular tattoos with this comprehensive book, illustrated with over 100 tattoo designs.
From sailors' swallows and Mexican skulls to prisoners' barbed wire and intricate Maori patterns, tattoos have been used as a means of communication by cultures all over the world for thousands of years.
The history of tattoos is a captivating tale of tradition, symbolism, rebellion, and artistry. Ink has played a crucial role in forming the fabric of human culture going back to ancient therapeutic practices to contemporary artistic expressions. Through meticulous research, The Tattoo Dictionary uncovers the fascinating origins of the most popular symbols in tattoo history, revealing their hidden meanings and the long-forgotten stories behind them.
This beautifully packaged book is an inspiring look at tattoo culture, and an indispensable guide to choosing your own tattoo.
Contents include meanings behind:
- Traditional anchor, grim reaper
- Maori patterns
- Caduceus, ouroboros
- Hamsa, Buddhist Om
- Mandalas, and many more
Trent Aitken-Smith is an international tattoo journalist and editor of Tattoo Master magazine.
Ashley Tyson is a tattoo artist at the award-winning Xotica studio in London
