"This is the biggest book in tattooing, this is the biggest book there is... this is what the tattoo world deserves."
TATTOO. 1730s-1970s. Henk Schiffmacher's Private Collection just arrived!
One part history book, one part art book, and one part fascinating memoir, this book is an overview of more than two centuries of tattoo history intermixed with an intimate look at the lives of tattoo artists, and the personal struggles and triumphs, occupational hazards, and artistic courage that have defined so much of this our community’s history.
For the last forty years, Henk Schiffmacher has poured his heart and soul into his tattoo history collection, amassing tattoo drawings, flash, photographs, and artifacts from around the world. Each of this book's five chapters features many never-before-seen highlights from his collection and includes lithographs, etchings, tattooing tools/supplies, original drawings, paintings, photographs, posters, shop signs, and flash. Among the flash collection are extremely rare, vintage sheets from major players in early Western tattooing. The vastness and variety of styles of tattooing from around the world are chronicled in the book's 700+ images, including the indigenous tattooing of the Maori and South Pacific islanders, the ancient traditions of Asia, and the origins of old-school Western tattooing in Europe and the United States. This massive book also features a dozen original illustrations by Schiffmacher in his inimitable style, as well as a personal introduction describing Schiffmacher's own journey as both an artist and a collector that has shaped his view of the art's journey from the underground to the mainstream. Schiffmacher brings a fascinating perspective to tattoo history through his personal reflections and wild tales of adventure. In this book, we learn not only about the history of tattooing but also about the adventures behind the making of one of the largest tattoo collections in the world, by a self-taught tattoo artist in love with the art and its innovators. We are beyond proud and excited to offer this incredible and important book through Lucky Supply. This is a must-have for any personal library, studio, or even coffee table!
Famous First Edition: First printing of 10,000 numbered copies
Hardcover, 11.4 x 15.3 in., 13.54 lb, 440 pages
Above, legendary tattoo artist and historian, Henk Schiffmacher, takes us on a personal journey through the history of tattooing from the 1730s to the 1970s in this oversized book of stunning artifacts and artwork.