BOOK

SACRED TATTOOS OF THAILAND

Coffee Table Books

Exploring the Magic, Masters and Mystery of Sak Yant is the first book in English to trace the origins of Sak Yant (yantra tattoos) in Tai tribal societies and to chronicle the spread of the tradition throughout much of Southeast Asia. Other topics explored in detail include the training of tattoo masters, the master-disciple relationship, protocol for visiting masters and receiving tattoos, and the unique blend of animism, Hinduism and Buddhism that supports the tradition.

“Some of us in the West still believe in the power of magic. Sacred Tattoos of Thailand brings us one step closer to regaining those parts of our souls that have long since splintered off. Absolutely essential for aficionados of sacred tattooing traditions.” 

Skin Deep — The UK’s biggest selling tattoo magazine

Sacred Tattoos Of Thailand is the product of more than 18 months of extensive field trips throughout Thailand, Cambodia and Laos, in-depth interviews, documentary photography and primary research, the title takes readers on a journey through cultures joined by a common tradition. Meet Sak Yant masters in their consecrated hermitages, where they practice tattoo arts as a spiritual path, as well as their disciples, who come from all walks of life, from New York drummer Ming Roth, Singaporean deejay Chris X’Ho and Thai actress Tak Bongkoj, to nightclub bouncers, wandering monks and a Thai police detective. Learn how yantra tattoos have been used for millenniums to boost courage, personal charisma, good fortune, health, prosperity and more, and how the tradition is interwoven with Buddhism, Brahmanism and animism.