"The Postman" illustration of tattooed Japanese mail carrier, circa 1897-1898

The Tattoo Photograph Collection contains postcards, cabinet cards, and other photographic forms from the late 19th century through early 20th century, featuring images of tattooed performers, tattoo artists, and other tattooed individuals. Most of the images are in the form of unfranked postcards, though a few of the postcards were circulated and include routine correspondence unrelated to the image. In addition to postcards and photographs, there are also a small number of cabinet cards.