Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern

Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern

An illustrated look at Filipino cultural practices connected with ancestral and spiritual aspects of tattoo markings, and how they relate to the process and tools used to make the marks. Tattooing is an old and spiritually respected art form that has existed in many different cultures around the world. After many centuries of not being practiced in Europe, tattooing was re-introduced to the Western world through the inhabitants of the Pacific Ocean. Beginning in the 16th century, European explorers came across many people who practiced tattooing as an integral part of their cultures. This is the first serious study of Filipino tattoos, and it considers early accounts from explorers and Spanish-speaking writers. The text presents Filipino cultural practices connected with ancestral and spiritual aspects of tattoo markings, and how they relate to the process and tools used to make the marks. In the Philippine Islands, tatoos were applied to men and women for many different reasons. It became a form of clothing. Certain designs recognized manhood and personal accomplishments as well as attractiveness, fertility, and continuity of the family or village. Facial tattoos occurred on the bravest warriors with names that denoted particular honor. Through the fascinating text and over 200 images, including color photographs and design drawings, the deep meanings and importance of these markings becomes apparent. "A must-have reference guide for tattooists who are intrigued by other cultures and inspired by their dramatic and meaningful tattoo art." -Bob Baxter tattooroadtrip.com "There hasn't been anything put out like this before. If your interested in getting a tribal tattoo, buy this book first. Trust me, you wont regret buying this." -Christian Cabuay, pinoytattoos.com "This is a critical intervention needed for us to fully appreciate these traditions outside of the colonial gaze and outside of the construction of "modern primitives." Filipino Tattoos: Ancient to Modern , returns us to our nobility, beauty, wisdom, and...a sense of magic." -Leny Strobel PhD, Sonoma State University Lane Wilcken has been researching the indigenous past of the Philippines and the Pacific Islands for more than two decades, incorporating oral traditions, written history, linguistics, and personal experience. His ancestral ties to this work continue to motivate his research. Used Book in Good Condition