An Essay on Tattoos and Markings

[Draiden 326]

The Mark of Faith
An Essay on Tattoos and Markings

On the Significance of Materials Used

Spoiler

Materials used in markings are often indicative of the nature of the marking and the importance of said marking. Markings involving things that can be washed off signify temporary importance. These materials may include paint, ash, blood and ink. More permanent markings may include ink tattoos, scar tattoos, burn tattoos, carvings, and inlays. With ink tattoos in particular, impurities in the dye (i.e. blood and ash) may also be used to further enhance the meaning behind the markings.
Ash - Rememberance, history
Blood - Passion, fervor, new
Carvings - permanence
Inlays - permanence, but also used as a status symbol
Burn/scarring tattoos - Sacrifice, loss

 

On the Significance of Placement – Body

Spoiler

Left arm - The left arm is symbolic of defending, as it is the shield’s arm. Since defense is an object of permanence, markings on it are indicative of things that ground the wearer through hardships. Markings on this arm are typically either wards to protect the wearer or a reminder of what’s defending them/who they’re defending.
Right arm - The right arm is one of action. One of change. Since this arm is an object of chaos, markings on it are indicative of things that are less literal, more symbolic to the wearer. Markings on this arm are typically empowering to the wearer.
Shoulders - The shoulders, and by extention the mantled area, is symbolic of the wearer’s past. It is not necessarily good or bad, but markings on this area represent the burdens and weight carried on his/her shoulders.
Chest/back - These areas are considered family areas. Markings in these areas typically represent the wearer’s house, family and close bonds.
Neck - An extention of the mantle, the neck  and throat are areas representing lies, deceits and dark secrets. These secrets are not necessarily the wearer’s, but these secrets are sacred to the wearer and have impacted them greatly.
Head - Head tattoos are used typically to indicate prowess and inner thoughts.
Face - Face tattoos are considered the most powerful of markings, especially around the eye area. Since eyes are windows to the spirit, and the mouth is a communicator to the world, tattoos on the face are indicative of the person as a whole, be it personality, aspirations, or tragic flaws.
Forearms - When separated from the upper arm area by a dividing line, the forearms become haunted. Tattoos on these areas represent regrets, fears and worries.
Hands - Since the hands work, tattoos on the hands may represent profession. They may also represent the wearer’s reasons for working.
Legs - Legs are typically always covered in most cases. Markings on the legs are typically for desire and lust.
Feet - Markings upon the tops of the feet are typically given to seafaring folk. The superstition carried amongst them is that markings on our feet will either give the wearer buoyancy or weigh them down.

 

On the Significance of Placement – Homestead
 

Spoiler

Pillars/Supports – Pillars and Supports, much like the left arm, are symbols of strength and fortitude. Markings and inlays on pillars and supports are likewise strong and sturdy wards and icons, rumored to imbue the structure with power.
Walls - Markings upon the walls are typically related to the past and to storytelling.
Floors/Windowsills - Markings on floors serve as wards of protection and grounding against physical threats
Ceilings - Markings on ceilings are wards as well, but against evils of the spirit and mind, such as troubling thoughts and nightmares.
Furniture - Markings on furniture are supposed to enhance the function of said furniture.

 

Disclaimer

 

   Due to the variation of cultures and backgrounds within Morsgradic culture, this is by no means a reflection of the significance of tattoos within the Morsgradic people. This essay is aimed specifically at tattoos given within the Red Faith, having its roots solely within the Norlandic people. This essay is by no means a complete guide, and as all things in this world are subject to change. If there are any questions or comments regarding this missive, I am always available to answer them.

 

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Jager Faretto