Tattoo. 1730s-1970s. Henk Schiffmacher’s Private Collection in Spanish

The Evolution of Saying Tattoo: 1730s-1970s

Henk Schiffmacher’s Private Collection in Spanish

Introduction

Tattoos have always been an intriguing form of body art, reflecting personal identities, beliefs, and cultures throughout history. From the 1730s to the 1970s, the way tattoos were referred to and understood evolved significantly. In this article, we will explore the journey of how the word “tattoo” was said and understood during this span of time, with a particular focus on Henk Schiffmacher’s Private Collection of tattoos in Spanish.

The 1730s and Beyond: Tatuaje and Its Origins

In the 1730s, the word “tattoo” found its way into the Spanish language as “tatuaje.” This term was borrowed from the Tahitian word “tatau,” which described the Polynesian practice of marking the skin with ink. Over time, the Spanish word “tatuaje” became widely used to refer to the art of tattooing and the resulting designs on the skin.

The Romantic Era: Marcar el Cuerpo

During the Romantic Era in the 19th century, which celebrated individualism and self-expression, the Spanish language witnessed a shift in how tattoos were discussed and understood. Instead of solely using the word “tatuaje,” the phrase “marcar el cuerpo” began to emerge, emphasizing the act of marking one’s body through tattoos. This phrase captured the romantic notions of personal freedom and artistic expression that tattoos embodied.

The 20th Century: El Arte Corporal

As the 20th century unfolded, tattoos gained more recognition as a form of art. Consequently, the Spanish language started to adopt the term “arte corporal” to describe the tattooing process and the resulting body art. This shift acknowledged tattoos as a legitimate artistic practice, elevating their status from mere body markings to a significant form of creative expression.

Henk Schiffmacher’s Private Collection: La Colección Privada

Henk Schiffmacher, a renowned tattoo artist and historian, amassed an impressive private collection of tattoo art spanning centuries. Schiffmacher’s collection dives deep into the evolution of tattooing, including works from the 1730s to the 1970s. In his collection, one can witness the transformation of how tattoos were said and understood in Spanish, capturing the linguistic and cultural nuances of each period.

Conclusion

The journey of saying “tattoo” in Spanish from the 1730s to the 1970s reflects the evolving understanding and recognition of tattoos as an art form. From the initial adoption of “tatuaje” to the romantic notion of “marcar el cuerpo” and finally embracing tattoos as “arte corporal,” the Spanish language adapted to the changing perception of tattoos. Henk Schiffmacher’s Private Collection serves as a testament to this linguistic and cultural evolution, showcasing the rich history and significance of tattoo art.

Women’s Wendy Tribal Earth