Tattoo: 1730s-1970s; Henk Schiffmacher's Private Collection

This book is an overview of more than two centuries of tattoo history, blending elements of a history book, an art book, and a captivating memoir. For the past forty years, Henk Schiffmacher has poured his heart and soul into amassing a remarkable collection of tattoo drawings, designs, photographs, and artifacts from around the world.

Each chapter of the book showcases many never-before-seen highlights from this collection, including lithographs, etchings, tattooing instruments, original drawings, and tattoo designs known as "flash" in the industry. These rare and vintage items provide a glimpse into the diverse and rich history of tattooing, from the indigenous practices of the Maori and South Pacific islanders to the ancient traditions of Asia and the origins of old-school Western tattooing in Europe and the United States.

The book also features a dozen original illustrations by Schiffmacher, reflecting his inimitable style and artistic vision. Through his personal reflections and thrilling tales of adventure, Schiffmacher offers a fascinating perspective on the history of tattooing, sharing not only the story of the art form itself, but also the captivating journey behind the creation of one of the largest tattoo collections in the world.

The book's comprehensive and diverse range of imagery chronicles the vastness and variety of tattooing practices around the globe, allowing readers to explore the rich cultural and artistic heritage of this age-old tradition. From the occupational hazards and artistic courage of tattoo artists to the personal struggles and triumphs that have shaped the industry, this book provides an intimate look at the lives and experiences that have defined so much of tattoo history.

Henk Schiffmacher's passion for the art of tattooing shines through in every aspect of this remarkable work, which seamlessly blends the historical, the artistic, and the personal into a captivating and immersive exploration of one of humanity's most enduring forms of self-expression.

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