The art of tattooing has been around for centuries and the black and gray style is a relatively new development. It began in the early 19th century when sailor tattoos were popularized by the Royal Navy and began to spread to other parts of the world. Though the style has been around for a while, it was not popularized until the mid-20th century and has since gained a lot of popularity among tattoo enthusiasts. The style is characterized by its monochromatic palette and its ability to create intricate designs. This style is also known for its realistic shading and depth, which is why it is so popular today.