Tattoo Traditions of Asia With Lars Krutak

Ever wondered what tattoos have in common with meteorites, hornbills, and cosmic deities? Lars Krutak, the legendary tattoo anthropologist and author of Tattoo Traditions of Asia, has the answers—and they’re as wild as you’d hope. After sitting down with him on For the Love of History, we’re bringing you five mind-blowing insights into the ancient and intricate world of indigenous tattoo traditions.

1. Tattoo Anthropology: A Field Born from Curiosity (and Frostbite?)

Picture this: It’s 1996. Lars Krutak, fresh to Fairbanks, Alaska, steps into -55°F weather and stumbles upon a woman with facial tattoos. That moment sparked a career in tattoo anthropology—a field Lars may have literally invented. Who knew a chance encounter in the Arctic would lead to documenting tattooing traditions across 50 countries?

2. Tattoos: Not Just for Aesthetics, But Protection!

Forget dreamcatchers; some indigenous tattoos are literal lifesavers. In Borneo, tattoos were linked to spiritual protection, guided by visions and crafted with tools believed to be infused with cosmic energy. (Yes, we’re talking about meteorites here!) These inked charms were thought to ward off danger, even in the midst of war.

3. Hornbills, Centipedes, and Sacred Geometry—Oh My!

Tattoo designs were more than just pretty pictures. Indigenous communities across Asia embedded cultural symbols into their skin, from hornbills that symbolized spiritual duality to centipedes revered for their fierce warrior energy. Each tattoo told a story, connected to local wildlife, mythology, or even omens that guided life’s biggest decisions.

4. The Women of Borneo: Artists, Healers, and Innovators

In Borneo, women dominated the tattooing scene, creating elaborate, geometric tattoos that doubled as spiritual armor. Working under tattoo deities, they performed rituals with offerings and sacred stencils made of bone or wood. Talk about artistry meeting spirituality!

5. Tattoo Revivals: A New Generation Honors the Past

While colonialism and missionary efforts erased many tattoo traditions, a resurgence is bringing them back. Artists today are blending ancient patterns with contemporary designs, creating meaningful tattoos that honor heritage while embracing modern identity. Lars highlights these trailblazers in Tattoo Traditions of Asia, proving the art form is far from static.

Want More?

Dive deeper into these incredible stories (and so many more) in Lars Krutak’s Tattoo Traditions of Asia. It’s packed with photos, research, and tales that’ll leave you in awe of the rich history behind indigenous tattoos.

And don’t forget to tune into the full episode of For the Love of History to hear Lars’s jaw-dropping fieldwork adventures—from motorcycles in the jungle to spiritual breakthroughs with elders.

🎧 Ready for a history lesson that’s anything but boring? Hit play now on For the Love of History!