The history of body modification throughout the ages
January 19, 2005
By: Bob Whitehead
While it seems like tattoos and piercings are just recently
getting accepted into the mainstream and popular culture, in truth,
the art of body modification has been around throughout history.
Piercings, tattoos, and even more extreme practices like suspension
have roots in ancient history.
Ear piercing and nose piercing denoted a person’s rank in society
in some cultures, such as the Tlingit society of North America.
Stretching earlobes with ear plugs is not a new practice – the
Mayans did it centuries ago. Evidence suggests that Roman soldiers
pierced their nipples as a sign of virility. Men and women in Eskimo
society also used to lip rings to indicate their social rank.
Samoan men received tattoos from their waists down in puberty
ceremonies. That tattoos served as protection. And next time you see
a person with a facial tattoo and wonder why someone would do that,
think of the men of New Zealand’s Maori people, who tattooed their
faces with unique patterns for prestige and as an expression of
individuality.
Scarification may seem like an extreme process, but has long been
practiced in African society. The patterns of the scars made a woman
more attractive to a man. Scarification was also used to mark
milestones and as a part of rites of passage. It was a ritualistic
practice, not merely an aesthetic one.
Suspension is not just an extreme practice in which a person
suspends their body from hooks for fun. It may seem confusing to
those who are not modification enthusiasts, but it is an eye-opening
and enlightening experience with roots in the Sioux Sun Dance
ritual. Performing the Sun Dance, which involved hooks through the
flesh just like suspension today does, could lead to visions and a
better understanding of the world.
Body modifications aren’t simply a jaded person’s way of shocking
the public. It has deep ties to the past and can unite us with our
ancestors.
About the Author:
Bob Whitehead is a successful freelance writer and publisher of
http://www.body-jewelry-useek.com. Body jewelry, piercing and tattooing information you seek to perfectly adorn your body.
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