The Meaning of Tattoos

The Meaning of Tattoos is an illustrated exploration of the stories behind over 130 tattoo symbols – a follow up to The Language of Tattoos. Discover the stories behind 130 iconic tattoo designs in this illustrated deep dive into the language of body art. Following the success of the bestselling The Language of Tattoos, this compelling volume features entirely new tattoo motifs, revealing how they communicate themes from rebellion and adventure to folklore, Greek gods, cosmic psychedelia and rock ’n’ roll. Renowned tattoo artist Ollie Munden brings every symbol to life with specially commissioned illustrations that blend fine-line precision with bold, Japanese-inspired aesthetics, while tattoo historian Nick Schonberger uncovers the cultural origins and evolving symbolism behind each image. Whether you’re searching for inspiration for your next tattoo, interested in the stories behind iconic designs or simply captivated by the artistry of ink, this book is a must-have. Beautifully designed and endlessly browsable, it’s an essential reference – and a standout gift – for tattoo lovers and anyone curious about the deeper meaning behind the marks we choose to wear.