Skin Deep

'An Ancient Custom'
During the 19th century, the popularity of tattooing spread from the Navy to the other military services. It was also taken up by those who lived in the busy port cities. Most notably, tattooing became associated with prostitutes and criminals. At this time, some theorists of criminal behaviour believed that modern Europeans who tattooed themselves were 'degenerating' to the condition of 'primitive' people. Nevertheless, tattooing remained popular. Heavily tattooed people were major attractions at fairs and circuses. Specialist tattooing equipment was invented and professional tattooists became an established part of port cities and pleasure parks.

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