Tattoos have been popular with sailors, soldiers and convicts for centuries. In the Victorian era, tattoos became much more widespread as a way to express identity.
Sailors would use tattoos like a personal logbook – a way to record their achievements and experiences at sea. Our maritime tattoos also include a stovepipe hat as a nod to Brunel himself.
These four floral tattoos represent four orchids which were first brought to Europe on the SS Great Britain. Each orchid was hand-drawn by artist Sarah Carpenter.
Adult supervision advised. Use with caution if you have sensitive skin.