From Alexander McQueen to Powell Peralta to mastermind Japan to Damien Hirst’s infinitely over-discussed For the Love Of God sculpture, skulls have dominated the cultural landscape unlike any other singular motif. Of course this is nothing new — mankind’s obsession with the macabre certainly predates the proto-heavy metal tropes of the 70s. English freelance editor, curator and art buyer Faye Dowling — who has worked for magazines including Dazed & Confused, Eye, Edit and Pictured — has compiled a new tome entitled The Book of Skulls which delves deep into this particular symbolism. The book features 160 pages celebrating the skull in music, art, fashion and design. Skulls may be a part of rock history and a symbol for rebellion, but it’s also a pan-cultural phenomenon. Emblazoned on t-shirts, used by illustrators and, in some cases, the prominent feature of a businesses brand, the skull is one of the most iconic symbols of our time. Kaws, Obey, Wes Lang, The Grateful Dead and Vivienne Westwood are just some of the artists and designers featured in the new work by Dowling. Pick up a copy of the book from Amazon for under $12.

via Eye and Guillotine