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Writer's pictureJeannie Marie Tattoos

Man in the Moon Tattoo

Updated: Jul 3


The inspiration behind this tattoo design—a beautiful woman gazing at a moon with a face—draws from the rich and intriguing lore of the “Man in the Moon” and its portrayal in early 20th-century cinema. This narrative explores humanity’s fascination with the moon, a celestial body that has been a source of mystery and myth across cultures and eras. 🌓


The Man in the Moon: Ancient Lore

The idea of the Man in the Moon has captivated human imagination for centuries. Various cultures have their own stories explaining the phenomenon:


In Western cultures, the Man in the Moon is often depicted as a face or a figure seen on the surface of the moon. This imagery is thought to result from the natural topography of the lunar surface—craters and maria creating patterns that resemble a human face. One popular medieval Christian tale speaks of a man caught stealing from his neighbor on a Sunday, who is then banished to the moon as punishment for violating the Sabbath.🌘


Norse mythology features the moon god Mani, who drives the moon across the sky in a chariot. Mani is often described as a handsome youth with a radiant face, symbolizing the moon itself.🌕


In Chinese folklore, the moon is home to the Jade Rabbit, which some legends suggest was once a human who was banished to the moon. Similarly, in Japanese folklore, the moon is associated with the goddess Tsukuyomi, often depicted as a serene and beautiful figure.✨


Various Indigenous cultures in North America also have their own moon lore. For example, the Cree tell of a great hunter who was transported to the moon as a reward for his prowess, and his figure can be seen in the moon’s shadows. 🌙


The fascination with the Man in the Moon found a new medium of expression in the early 20th century with the advent of film. The 1920s, in particular, saw innovative depictions of lunar themes and characters like in Georges Méliès’ A Trip to the Moon (1902) which depicted a whimsical and iconic image of the moon with a face, struck by a rocket. This film is a cornerstone of science fiction and fantasy, blending the mystique of the moon with the wonders of early special effects. 🌝



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