Ancient Marks: The Sacred Origins of Tattoos and Body Markings Paperback – March 10, 2006

The subtletly and artistry of this book is apparent from the very first turn of a page. Chris Ranier, one of the world's foremost documentary photographers, has created a artful, evocative record of the human canvass posed against the natural landscape. The photographs focus mostly on tattoing and scarification, and are oriented toward the tribal, both traditional and modern. This is an essential addition to any body art library, and at less than $30, the paperback version (which also includes a DVD) is a real bargain. I cannot recommend this enough.

This is truly a wonderful book. Rainier's other book, "Where Masks Still Dance: New Guinea" was fabulous in its presentation and images, but this book goes one better with a dvd enhanced with music by Anoushka Shankar which can be viewed on its own. The music perfectly complements the starkness of the haunting images. Tattoos,scarification, and other bodily modifications of many cultures are showcased here without calling unecessary attention to these adornments as bizarre/freakish as in some other books which are designed to shock/titillate.

The book is beautiful and the content is excellent. Is ment to be a coffee table book. However, the glue for the paperback is not good and the weight of the book makes the pages detach from the cover.

I bought this book as a gift for my girlfriend but stole it back. It isn't all about tattoos, which it may lead you to believe, but includes bits about all types of body modification techniques. The photographer is a well known National Geographic photographer, and his work certainly doesn't fail here. Good coffee table book if you have stuck up inlaws like I do that would be made uncomfortable by the sight of it.

Being familiar with his work, I knew the book would be amazing. Included a DVD of images from the book with wonderful indigenous music. This was a gift to friends. They treasure it. As always, Amazon service (shipping, contact, atc. ) was wonderful. Never a problem.

Bought as a Christmas gift for the tattoo lover in my family. He and his wife love it!

I was disappointed with what the photographer chose to do with this amazing subject matter and incredible opportunity. Found the poses too often to be romanticized and a bit tacky. An outsider looking in using his own cultural vision rather than using images and words to illuminate the deep meaning of this sacred and ancient art.

Cover was a little bent but otherwise the book was in good shape so I was please with the gift.