"Texas" Tattoo Flash Drawing

1940
$480 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 14.0" D: 0.25" H: 11.5"
Materials
Paper
Collection #
CAN021
Estimated Shipping
$20

Known as “tattoo flash,” these colorful drawings, largely by self-taught artists, shed a light on the deviant spirit of an earlier time. They were hung in tattoo parlors in the 30s and 40s to be selected as designs for permanent skin art. The practice was generally frowned upon. Still, tattoos became popular among soldiers and sailors who bore one or two on their arms to signify fealty to a military unit, document bravery, or express love for someone back home. With the popularity of tattooing today, vintage flash art has become wildly collectible. We are lucky to have acquired a sizable collection of excellent examples and are excited about the yin they bring to our yang.

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Suzanne Lovell | Suzanne Lovell, Inc.

“I am particularly fond of PAGODA RED as we have known the family for so long. Betsy is a professional in every way and her intelligent taste comes from a long line of family knowledge in the arts. She and her team are the very best to work with and we find treasures with every visit!”

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