The Museum of Hamburg History is currently showing an exhibition devoted to legendary German tattooist Christian Warlich, who practised his craft in the St Pauli district of the city (home to the famousReeperbahn red light district). Known as “The King of Tattooists”, Warlich tattooed for more than half acentury, until his death in 1964. The Museum for Hamburg History owns a fascinating collection of Warlich artefacts.
Many international loan exhibits are also on display, as well as material relating to Karl Finke, Willi Spiegel, Martin Ahlers, Paul Holzhaus and other early 20th century tattooists to give visitors an insight into the tattoo scene in Hamburg at that time.
Christian Warlich's flash book is the center piece of the exhibition.And to give everyone a taste of his work, the Museum is showcasing a different double-page spread on its website each week. A facsimile of the book – with more than 300 of Warlich's designs restored to their original vibrant colors – has recently been published by Prestel in a special bi-lingual English/German edition (ISBN 978-3-7913-5896-3).
This exquisite volume also includes previously unpublished archival material and photographs, plus new research that shines a light on how Warlich's early years at sea, travelling the world, may have influenced his tattoo designs.
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