Tattoos are much older than what we may think
Humans have marked their bodies with tattoos for thousands of years. These permanent designs have served as amulets, status symbols, declarations of love, signs of religious beliefs, adornments and even forms of punishment.
The earliest evidence in terms of tattoos on actual bodies were initially Egyptian, as several 2000 B.C female mummies had them. But after the more recent discovery of the Iceman and his tattoo patterns in the Italian-Austrian border in 1991, this date has been pushed back a thousand years further, as it has been carbon-dated at around 5,200 years old!
How did they do it?
Archaeologists in Abydos have discovered 3000 B.C. implements, best described as a sharp point set in a wooden handle that may have been used to create the tattoos. The same design of instruments but made of bronze were also discovered at the town of Gurob, dating back to 1450 B.C. These instruments resemble wide, flattened needles that if tied together in a bunch, they would provide repeated patterns of multiple dots.
Tattoos in the Modern Era
Modern history of tattooing started with Captain Cook in the 18th century as Joseph Banks, a botanist accompanying Cook on his travels, derived the word tattoo from the Tahitian word tatau. As the travel routes of the world were discovered and opened, especially for merchants and traders, the concept of tattooing was spread out. Westerners got tattoos done on their bodies and upon returning home displayed it to their own people.
The first formal tattoo shop was opened in New York by an artist named Martin Hildebrandt in 1846. He tattooed mostly army people who generally got tattoos with patriotic themes. During this time, tattooing was still a taboo for women in the society, but by the end of World War II tattooing was given full-fledged acceptance. In the 1960s tattooing was banned in countries like United States because of a hepatitis disease outbreak. In the 70s and 80s, tattoos saw a trending change and people started to get more inclined towards them, until the huge popularity that tattoos have in the present day.
Mantra Tattoo & Body Piercing
We are Colorado’s Best Custom Tattoos, Piercing and Body Jewelry. Mantra Tattoo and Piercing is a full service tattoo shop providing professional clean custom tattoos, piercings, and a large variety of jewelry and clothing. Schedule an appointment online or visit us.
We use medical grade sterilization and always new needles on every tattoo and piercing. Our shop is fully inspected and regulated by the Jefferson County Health Department. Age requirements: 18 and up on your own with photo ID; 16 – 17 with legal guardian and both individuals required to have photo ID with matching last names.
1695 Wadsworth Blvd, Lakewood, Colorado
(303) 239-8282 / (303) 238-3736
Open: Mon – Sat 11:00 am – 9:00 pm, Sun 12:00 noon – 9:00pm
