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The Language of Tattoos

130 Symbols and What They Mean
By Nick Schonberger
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3.88 goodreads logo

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Check link for latest rating. ( 162 ratings, 51 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Language of Tattoos by Nick Schonberger is an engaging exploration of the rich history and cultural significance of tattoos worldwide. The book delves into the diverse meanings behind tattoo designs and how they serve as personal and societal expressions. Through vivid imagery and insightful narratives, it highlights how tattoos have evolved into a powerful form of communication and identity.
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Format: Hardback
$4500
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you have an interest in the rich history and cultural significance of tattoos. It explores the symbolism and stories behind various tattoo designs, providing insight into how body art can communicate personal and cultural narratives. Whether you're a tattoo enthusiast or simply curious about the art form's impact across the world, this book offers a fascinating journey through inked expression.

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This book uncovers the meanings behind over 150 tattoo symbols, delving into the history of the most popular motifs that recur in many different tattoo styles, including tribal, traditional, Japanese and realistic.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

This beautifully illustrated guide delves deep into the meaning and significance of different tattoo symbols, exploring the rich cultural history around the world of this widespread form of body art. 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. The Language of Tattoos 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 150 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 Megamunden, 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 inking, or who just loves tattoo art.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Language of Tattoos is highly praised for its captivating illustrations and insightful exploration of tattoo history and symbolism. Foreword Reviews describes it as an engaging guide to the art of tattoos, ideal for anyone interested in body ink or curious about its cultural significance. The Manhattan Book Review awards it five stars, noting that it may broaden perspectives or enhance understanding of tattoo culture.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780711267862

Publisher: Quarto Publishing PLC

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 25 October 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Frances Lincoln

Illustration: colour illustrations

Contributors:

  • Illustrated by Oliver Munden

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Width: 170.0mm

Height: 224.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 224

Collections

Arts & Culture Education & Reference Nick Schonberger Non-Fiction Science & Nature

About the Author

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).

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  • TTT: Tattoo
    TTT: Tattoo is a visually stunning, high-quality art book that explores contemporary tattoo culture across the world. The book features the work of over 300 of the world's best studios and individuals, including Rock of Ages, Saved Tattoo, Into You, the Leu family, Scott Campbell, Duncan X, Maud Dardeau, Stephanie Tamez, Tomas Tomas, and Kenji Alucky. Exploring the connections between...
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  • The Graphic Art of Tattoo Lettering
    The Graphic Art of Tattoo Lettering is a visually led, comprehensive guide to designing and realising hand-drawn letterforms in the most widely used contemporary tattoo styles. Each chapter provides an accessible overview of these key tattoo styles, including an account of their history, complexities, and relevant sub-styles. The book includes interviews spotlighting leading practitioners, galleries of exemplary artists' work, sketches,...
    By Nick Schonberger and B.J. Betts and William Joseph Betts
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  • Pre-order
    The Meaning of Tattoos
    Following the success of the bestselling The Language of Tattoos, this stunning new volume takes you even deeper into the rich symbolism of body art. Featuring 130 completely new tattoo motifs, The Language of Tattoos Vol. 2 explores fresh themes—from rebellion and adventure to folklore, Greek gods, cosmic psychedelia, and rock 'n' roll. Each symbol is accompanied by specially commissioned...
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    Out 3 Nov 2026

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