Thai Magic Tattoos

Book excerpt: For hundreds of years, Thai Buddhist monks, using magical incantations and spells, have been covering people's bodies with indelible ink marks in the belief that they will attract luck, wealth, and blessings. Images of tattooed men appear in 18th century murals. In the past, people believed that these tattoos would provide protection against evil spirits and could render the bearer invulnerable to stab wounds and even bullets. Known in Thai as Sak Yant, these ancient tattoos are today undergoing a revival in popularity, both in Thailand and beyond. In addition, Thai tattoo masters are invited to practice their art abroad, thus increasing the popularity of Sak Yant worldwide. Drawing on research fields as diverse as anthropology, religion, history, medicine, and psychology, 'Thai Magic Tattoos - The Art and Influence of Sak Yant' also seeks to explain how tattoos can change the life of the bearer. With magnificent new photographs by Rene Drouyer, 'Thai Magic Tattoos' is an essential guide to this fascinating subject. 202 illustrations