Berber tattooing

In a studio in the back streets of a quiet residential area in Casablanca, an old tradition is being reborn.

Berber tattoos, steeped in rich cultural history and symbolism, are more than just ink on skin; they are a profound expression of identity, tradition, and spirituality. Originating from the indigenous Berber people of North Africa, these tattoos are a captivating visual language that weaves myths and meanings into intricate designs. In this exploration of Berber tattoos, we will delve into the captivating symbolism behind these ancient markings that have stood the test of time. The process of receiving a Berber tattoo is often a rite of passage, marking significant transitions such as puberty, marriage, or achievements within the community. Berber tattoos are imbued with the echoes of ancient myths and legends that have been passed down through generations.

Berber tattooing

Eurovision Song Contest organisers are scrutinising the Israeli submission after lyrics leaked to the media appeared to refer to the Oct. Skip to main content. Exclusive news, data and analytics for financial market professionals Learn more about Refinitiv. Few Tunisians now speak the Berber languages more commonly found in Algeria and Morocco, and outward signs of Berber cultural identity are often relegated to motifs found on the handicrafts mass-produced for tourists. Among Tunisians, they were seen as symbols of an impoverished past but some younger people are now becoming interested in their Berber roots and turn to Mahdouani, 35, to connect them to it with tattoos. She said she prized the way each marking signified a part of a woman's tribal or family identity. It's like a Facebook wall and this is my wall," she said, asking not to give her family name. As tattoos took off around the world, some younger Tunisians took up the trend, but without looking back at their own tradition of body art. Mahdouani said many Tunisians had grown to see Berber tattoos as low class or disreputable. Just as there are Maori and other tribal tattoos known all around the world, we should take pride too in a tradition going back 6, years in Tunisia," she said. Mahdouani has researched the traditional "tekaz" tradition of Berber tattoos, collecting designs and learning about the custom of using body art to ward off disease or bad luck through particular symbols on different parts of the body.

A traditional Amazigh tattoo representing 'strength and trust' by Aswad Tattooing Club.

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Berber tattoos were undoubtedly initially a distinctive sign, a mark of a tribe. Each clan had its particular designs and decorative composition. All the clan's women were labeled, willingly or forcibly, at the age of puberty. One of the reasons for that is the ability to recognize them in case of kidnappings that followed wars, fights, and raids. Each tribe had its "maalema. The symbols' arrangement, meaning, and names differed from those of neighboring tribes, just as the decorations of the carpets or woven fabrics varied. Some tribes used tattoos to intimidate their enemies; The hostility of a tribe or the clan spirit retained their purity in these distinctive tattoos. As Berber transhumance flourished and the ostracism between clans diminished, safety prevailed, and marriages between Berbers from different origins became normality. A mixture of symbols in Berber tattoos appeared.

Berber tattooing

Berber tattoos, steeped in rich cultural history and symbolism, are more than just ink on skin; they are a profound expression of identity, tradition, and spirituality. Originating from the indigenous Berber people of North Africa, these tattoos are a captivating visual language that weaves myths and meanings into intricate designs. In this exploration of Berber tattoos, we will delve into the captivating symbolism behind these ancient markings that have stood the test of time.

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Mahdouani said many Tunisians had grown to see Berber tattoos as low class or disreputable. Incorporating animal motifs into tattoos allows individuals to draw on the virtues associated with these creatures. While Jaouad believes that it is important to preserve the tradition of Amazigh tattooing, he acknowledges that getting a tattoo is a personal decision. Lifestyle category Beyonce storms to first UK no. The influence of Moroccan folklore led to many symbols being placed on a woman's body as a means of protection against curses and evil spirits. Berber tattoos are imbued with the echoes of ancient myths and legends that have been passed down through generations. Published Date 31 December, Category Blog. Aswad Tattooing Club logo. Sketches of traditional Amazigh designs hanging outside the tattoo studio. Jaouad is an anthropological researcher, tattoo artist and the founder of the Club. As we explore the intricate designs and delve into the symbolism, we discover that Berber tattoos are not just skin-deep; they are a profound expression of identity, a bridge between the past and the present, and a tribute to the enduring spirit of the Berber people. Behind a sunken couch are bags full of vintage clothes yet to be put on display.

Tattoos have been a form of expression, identity, and art for centuries, and Berber tattoos are no exception.

Foot 'toe ring' tattoo by Aswad Tattooing Club. The act of receiving a tattoo is often accompanied by rituals and prayers, reinforcing the spiritual significance of the markings. Geometric Patterns: Berber tattoos are renowned for their geometric precision and complexity. He describes each tattooing experience as "magical". She said she prized the way each marking signified a part of a woman's tribal or family identity. Later, Mahdouani carefully copied down Issaoui's designs. Marriage, loss of virginity, childbirth, death: these chapters of her life were all permanently preserved beneath her skin. On top of this, many young people have also begun to show an interest in traditional forms of tattooing, with its popularity growing increasingly over the past few years. Why we are not proud of this side of our culture? Jaouad showing off one of Bachibouzouk's many treasured items.