The views of experts differ on the subject of 'erotic' tattoos. Baldaev's drawings contain images that to the untrained eye appear erotic but have, according to evidence he gathered, been meted out as punishments (for losing at cards etc.). Others maintain that erotic shaming tattoos only ever consist of one subject: a woman entwined with a serpent, which is forcibly tattooed on the back of the victim. Top left: The tattoo of a passive homosexual. Top right: 'Glory to the CPSU!' Forcibly applied to a prisoner who lost at cards in the strict regime CLC No.9 (1980s). This distinctive 'grin', directed at the authorities, always raised a laugh with other convicts. Bottom centre: 'The food provision programme of the Communist Party is being fulfiled!' Bottom right: A tattoo worn by passive homosexuals.
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