Samuel O’ Relly, a famed tattooist in New York City, once stated, ” A Sailor without a tattoo is like a ship without grog – not seaworthy.”

Some scientists say certain marks on the skin of the Iceman – a mummified human body dating from about 3300 BC – like tattoos. These tattoos and body art are found more on Egyptian and Nubian mummies dating from about 2000 BC. Classical authors mention the use of tattoos in connection with the Greeks, ancient Germans, Gauls, Thracians, and ancient Britons.

Tattooing and body art was forbidden in Europe. The practice continued the Middle East and other parts of the world. Tattooing has been linked with the lives of the sailors. Captain Cook a sailor discovered tattooed natives in South Pacific. He thought it to be a perfect and exotic souvenir for him and his sailors.

THE TATTOS ON SAILORS AND ABOUT THEM

* A dragon showed the sailors had served on a China station.
* A full-rigged ship showed the sailor has sailed around Cape Horn.
* An anchor showed the sailor had sailed the Atlantic Ocean.
* A shellback turtle denoted a sailor who has crossed the equator.
* A golden dragon denoted a sailor who had crossed the international dateline.

Today, tattooing has reached new popularity. Tattoos have different meanings and are being put for various purposes. People of different ages, gender and different walks of life are finding different meanings. Tattooing is modern in its form only in the tools and designs used.

Henna, an Indian practice, is popular as long-lasting temporary body art. Tattooing has reached its level of individuality. The method of putting a tattoo is relatively safe and painless now. The tattoos are exchanged among friends, for beauty and adventure.