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The History of Tattoos - Addison Anderson
The historical origins of the first tattoo is still unknown but the uses of tattooing varies across time. Although there is not one particular location of the tattoo origin, many cultures have used inking of the body way before it was known as tattooing. Museums have held history that has dated tattooing to be present over 10,000 years back. Ancient tools that were discovered in the past that were thought to be tools made for tattooing. Mummies from Peru were found to have a tattoos of a mustache yet the reason behind it is still unclear. A priestess mummy from Middle Kingdom Egypt was found to have tattoos on her body representing her sexuality and fertility. Once used to represent honor for warriors and soldiers, it was also a way for individuals to brand their slaves and was a form of punishment in some cultures. |
Sak Yant, also known as Yantra tattooing was originated from Ancient Southeast Asia. It is still practiced today and performed only by monks with either a metal spike or a sharpen bamboo. Engraved in the skin, hand-etched with an ancient geometric designed inclusive of Buddhist prayers for protection against evil and powers of healing and strength.
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Tatau in the Polynesian culture is a rite of passage for males. Starting as young as age 14, the young male must endure days of tattooing to obtain an Pe'a which covers majority of the torso all the way down to the thigh area and ending just above the knee. The process is painful but those who do not choose to accomplish this will be considered a coward for the rest of his being.
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