This is the first book in English to tell the history and describe the intricacies of Modern Tattooing. It ranges from the tattoos found on the skins of Egyptian mummies to the fierce dragon on the chest of King Frederick of Denmark.Hanns Ebensten has for many years been interested in this primitive, expressive art which is now firmly established all over the globe. Here he traces the development of tattooing from its pagan origin through Greek, Roman and Early Christian times, through the circus exhibitionists of the last century and the custom's short but spectacular vogue amongst the élite of the fin-de-siècle, down to contemporary practice. He discusses tattoo designs and symbols of the last hundred years, and attempts to discover their underlying impulses.The book touches on the various cosmetic and professional purposes to which tattooing has been put and includes sketches of some of the celebrated tattooists - and the most celebrated tattooed - of the past and today. It contains sections dealing with the special tattoos of the soldier, the sailor, the pimp and the thief, as well as with the designs chosen by those moved by patriotic, religious or sexual fervour. 'Pierced Hearts and True Love' opens up an unfamiliar and intriguing world, revealing the charm of what have been aptly termed our countless 'perambulating art galleries'.
