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In Blue Ink. Rediscovering the history of tattooed women in the archives of French prisons (1881-1950)
A lecture by historian Jeanne Barnicaud
Médiathèque Françoise Sagan (Paris 10th)
About
Jeanne Barnicaud will share her current research on the practices and imaginary of female tattooing in the 19th and 20th centuries.
This work aims to restore the nuances of a form of expression (and sometimes even art) which, contrary to preconceived ideas, was not limited to sailors, soldiers, prisoners, and prostitutes. In-depth analysis of scientific studies, press articles, and prison records suggests a much broader adoption of this mode of personal expression. Female tattooing was practiced to enhance appearance, adopt counter-cultural codes, and assert an identity. While it was sometimes imposed or suggested, it was also an opportunity to voluntarily express one's individuality.
Jeanne Barnicaud is a teacher-researcher and doctoral candidate at the University of Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne.
The City of Paris History Committee, the association Histoire et vies du 10e, and the Françoise Sagan media library offer a series of lectures on the theme of detention, to complement, enrich, and broaden the scope of the exhibition Prisonnières, les dernières années de la prison Saint-Lazare (1919-1932) presented at the library.
Our take on this event
History often ignores the hidden stories behind women's tattoos from the turn of the century, but this deep dive into old prison archives finally sets the record straight. Beyond stereotypes of sailors and convicts, explore how these markings served as powerful tools for self-expression and identity. It is a brilliant opportunity to rediscover a bold, artistic chapter of female heritage that remains largely unknown.
Explore the overlooked history of women's tattoos during an exclusive lecture at the Médiathèque Françoise Sagan on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. From 19:00 to 20:30, researcher Jeanne Barnicaud analyzes French prison records from 1881 to 1950 to uncover how women utilized body art for self-expression. Suitable for ages 12 and up and fully wheelchair accessible, this event challenges misconceptions about historical tattooing practices. While the talk is free to attend, registration with librarians or through the online portal is required. Join us in the 10th arrondissement for this deep dive into the archives that shaped women's identities across the decades.
Médiathèque Françoise Sagan presents A l'encre bleue, a lecture led by Jeanne Barnicaud. As part of a series on detention, this event complements the exhibition Prisonnières, les dernières années de la prison Saint-Lazare (1919-1932). The session focuses on the practices and imagery of female tattooing throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
By examining legal records, press archives, and scientific studies, the researcher from Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne illustrates that tattooing was far more than a marginal practice. You will explore how women used tattoos as a form of personal expression, an aesthetic choice, or a way to assert individual identity against prevailing social norms. The presentation debunks the myth that tattoos were reserved solely for specific social groups like sailors or prisoners.
The event takes place on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 19:00 to 20:30. It is open to anyone aged 12 and over. Admission is free, though attendees must register in advance either online, by phone, or directly on-site. The venue ensures full accessibility for wheelchair users. This initiative is proudly supported by the Comité d'Histoire de la Ville de Paris and the association Histoire et vies du 10e.
