Japanese style skull meaning. A Guide to Japanese Tattoo Culture

Peony is undoubtedly considered the king of flowers. And thanks to the large number of petals that elegantly curl around the edges, Peony is also called “a rose without thorns.”

Several plants and flowers are used in Japanese tattooing, and among them Peony takes its rightful and honorable place.

Peony is considered a symbol of wealth, prosperity and good luck. Traditionally, Peony is performed in red, but today other colors are used, such as blue and purple.

Japanese MAPLE (Momiji)

One of the most popular subjects for the background in an Oriental tattoo is the Japanese Maple - a symbol of wind and time.

Maple leaves also represent rebirth, their changes throughout the year - a vivid reminder of the cycle of life and death of all living things.

Often in Japanese tattoo designs, maple leaves are depicted floating in water or flying in gusts of wind.

The Japanese consider the Chrysanthemum to be the “sun flower” of the imperial family.

CHRYSANTHEMUM (Kiku)

The Japanese consider the Chrysanthemum to be the “sun flower” of the imperial family. This flower with petals resembling the rays of the sun is a symbol of perfection, longevity and joy, as well as an attribute of a worthy ruler.

In Japan there is a national festival of happiness called “Chrysanthemum Day”.

In China, Chrysanthemum is considered a mediator between heaven and earth, that is, between life and death.

Chrysanthemum is identified with autumn, anticipation and contemplation. It is a flower of prosperity, tranquility and a long and full life.

In Japan Sakura, with her beautiful period blossoming and rapid fading, symbolizes life itself

SAKURA

In Japan, Sakura, with its beautiful bloom and rapid decline, symbolizes life itself. The fragility of this cherry represents the fragility and transience of our existence.

Sakura can be the image of ideal death for a warrior or innocence and beauty for a girl.

The Sakura cherry tree is held in high esteem in Japan, with thousands of people gathering to watch the Sakura blossoms. This holiday is called “Hanami” and is a national event and a welcome to spring.

In tattooing, Sakura is often used with other images that can overwhelm the beauty and sophistication of this flower. However, when used correctly, Sakura flower or flying petals can be a good background for Oriental style tattoos.

Marvelous beautiful flowers Lotuses have become a symbol of awakening the meaning of life in many Eastern religions, especially in India.

LOTUS (Hasu)

Amazingly beautiful Lotus flowers have become a symbol of the awakening of the meaning of life in many Eastern religions, especially in India.

FURFUR continues to tell its readers about the current state of affairs in tattoo culture. This time we will talk about one of the most ancient traditions - Japanese tattooing.

The Japanese tradition in tattooing is considered one of the oldest and most influential. Its history goes back thousands of years, and its influence is evidenced by the fact that tattoos from Japanese masters were worn by royalty - King Frederick IX of Denmark, Edward VII of England and, according to legend, even Nicholas II. First of all, they went to study with masters in order to understand all the elements of traditional design, their meaning and the rules for their combination. In a traditional Japanese tattoo, certain elements are often placed together. For example, peonies are traditionally paired with a Japanese lion. All these nuances are the main difficulty of a Japanese tattoo: in order to draw a dragon, you need to clearly know what type of dragon it is, because this will determine not only its shape and color, but also its location on the back. The Japanese believe that this aspect is inaccessible to foreigners - it is impossible to study all the nuances and rules from books alone. And the most orthodox tattoo artists believe that today, even among Japanese tattooists, there is not a single tattoo artist who fully understands this art. The traditions of Japanese tattooing were preserved not only in the strict rules of design, but also in matters of technique. Many old masters continue to use special bamboo tebori sticks instead of a machine and claim that with a machine the result is completely different - the machine paints the skin more densely, and the sticks allow one to achieve a different level of tonal gradation. On the other hand, the machine allows you to significantly save time - traditional tebori tattoos were filled by hand, and the classic form of tattoo - a “suit” that covers the entire body from shoulders to hips - takes a lot of time, sometimes about 200 hours. Although for some this has its own specifics - the legendary master Horioshi III, for example, says that in the West people get tattoos too quickly and thoughtlessly, and continues to be amazed that you can start and finish a tattoo in one day. It is necessary to make allowances for the fact that the strict canon of Japanese tattooing is gradually losing ground: the great masters are living out their days. The same Horiyoshi replaced bamboo sticks with metal knitting needles, and his admirers followed him, and since the 1990s, many have completely replaced the knitting needles with a machine. Traditional training is increasingly giving way to internships in the world's best tattoo parlors, and the advent of postmodernism allows some liberties in the interpretation of classic subjects. In Europe and America they are trying to create their own kind of orientalism, which in the search for individuality leads to oddities like the cubic geisha. Orientalist tattoo artist Oliver Peck says about this phenomenon: “Everything used to be different: America, Europe and Japan had their own style. Now everything is about the same everywhere, and in America more tattoos are being done in Japanese style than in Japan itself."

What's happening now

A story about a Japanese tattoo would be incomplete without a story about how this tattoo is treated in Japan. The fact is that Japan is one of the few countries in which tattooing is still taboo today. The reasons for this are generally clear: for a long time the tattoo was strongly associated with the Japanese mafia and, unfortunately, continues to be considered a symbol of the mafia, at least by the authorities.

Most gyms and swimming pools will not allow people with even tiny tattoos on the inside of the forearm, and larger tattoos that are visible on the arms and legs may even get you asked to leave a bar or store. One of the latest high-profile stories was the campaign of the mayor of Osaka, Toru Hashimoto, who, under threat of dismissal, forced all civil servants in the city to report on their tattoos: where they are and what they represent.

It is difficult to say whether the situation will change on its own over time. On the one hand, every year there are more and more people covered with tattoos, on the other hand, tattooed Japanese continue to hide their tattoos. Tattoo artist John Mack believes that most Japanese people think their neighbors don't have tattoos, but the truth is they just don't show them.

John came to Japan to get a tattoo from Horiyoshi and liked to have a glass in the local pub in the evening. When it came to tattoos, he would brag about his work from Horioshi - and every time he was asked to show this work. If the situation was right, John would take off his T-shirt, and then sometimes something amazing would happen: after him, the rest of the pub’s visitors, both men and women, would take off their T-shirts. And it turned out that they were all tattooed.

Japanese tattoo artists

Rumor has it that in the past Horioshi was a real gangster. Horiyoshi III has been tattooing for over 40 years, and at one time studied in accordance with all traditions with master Horioshi II. It’s no longer possible to make an appointment with him - he doesn’t start new tattoos, he just finishes the old ones.

At 65, he remains one of the best specialists in “costumes” and one of the central figures of the movement, which influenced the entire culture. At this moment, he is the author of 11 books and the founder of the tattoo museum in the port of Yokohama.

Shige

One of the best young Japanese tattooists. Shige is famous own style. Of course, he draws on the Japanese tradition, but gives it his own interpretation, mixing in Western influences such as the work of Paul Rodgers, Ed Hardy and Sailor Jerry.

Shige remained self-taught in tattooing for a long time, until on one of his trips he met Philip Liu, from whom he decided to make a suit for himself. Despite the outright neo-traditionalism, Shige’s work is highly appreciated by Horioshi himself, who even agreed to write an introduction to his book and noted in it that Shige’s work goes beyond traditional tattooing and has already become art.

Another modern Japanese tattoo artist who is attentive to traditions, but at the same time has his own style and is very unusual style. And, although Miyazo underwent classical training from master Horitsune II from Osaka, he is quite progressive - for example, ten years ago he began using a machine.

Miyazo is one of the most influential Japanese tattoo artists today, having influenced, for example, Chris Brand and Drew Floors. The importance of Miyazo is evidenced by the fact that, together with Shige, he will represent Japan in the documentary series Gipsy Gentleman, dedicated to the world of tattoos.

A New York tattoo artist that requires an appointment a year in advance. Mike is famous for his respect for Japanese style and for making tattoos for tattoo artists. And once he even tattooed a corpse (Mike did not specify the details of this event). He started working with realism and orientalism, including Tibetan and Chinese, and came to the traditional Japanese style. Mike is also a great moralizer: in all his interviews he advises tattoo artists who get involved with Oriental art to read more books and do everything according to the rules.

A third-generation artist, Philip Liu loves Japanese style and has a rare freedom of thought. Thus, he believes that the use of one style or another should not make the tattoo artist a conformist.

Philip has been tattooing since he was a child. His father was born in Japan and, together with his wife (and then their children), traveled for almost 30 years around the world - India, Africa, Polynesia, America - to learn national tattoo styles. Philip is famous for his interpretation of the Japanese costume tattoo - he took it to another level, and it is difficult to imagine what neo-traditionalism would be like without him.

The origin and development of tattoo art in Japan

According to the most popular version, tattooing came to Japan in the 5th century. BC. from China, where this art has been developing for 6 centuries. In the 3rd century AD travelers from the Middle Kingdom who arrived in Japan noted that representatives of noble families can be distinguished from ordinary people because they have drawings on their faces. According to another version, tattoo traditions came to Japan from the most ancient times thanks to the Aina people, who lived next to the Japanese from 7000 to 250 BC. A very well-known legend among the inhabitants of Japan tells that the mythological ruler of the Land of the Rising Sun Jimmu (660-585 BC) had such beautiful tattoos that he amazed the famous beautiful queen Senoyatatara, who composed a poem in their honor. For this reason, in Japan until the 6th century BC. Only emperors could decorate their bodies with tattoo designs, and only some time later tattoos began to appear on representatives of other social groups. It must be said that the first Japanese tattoo work was done not with needles, but with plant thorns.

There has always been a special attitude towards tattoo artists in Japan, as they were considered real artists. One version says that initially tattoo artists worked together with engravers, who made sketches on the body, and tattoo artists filled them in. From another you can find out that tattoo artists were the same engravers who changed their type of activity. But be that as it may, the training procedure was very similar: for 5 years the student worked as an apprentice, washed floors, mixed ink and, most importantly, studied classical drawing.

The Kojiki, one of the first written monuments in Japan, talks about two types of tattoos. The first type was sign of representatives of the nobility, and were marked with tattoos of the second type criminals. At the beginning of the Kofun era (4th-6th centuries AD), tattoos were not publicly disapproved. But in the middle of this period, attitudes towards them changed greatly. A number of studies report that tattoo designs were signs of social outcasts. Traitors had the hieroglyph “dog” painted on their foreheads, and such a person was perceived by society as a complete outcast.

By the end of the 17th century, tattooing in Japan began priests and geishas decorate their bodies. One of the significant innovations in 1720 was the practice of tattooing as punishment, which replaced the cutting off of the nose and ears. However, the samurai were free from this punishment. Tattoos were applied to such criminals as extortionists, fraudsters, as well as people involved in forgery of documents and banknotes. The perpetrators were given a tattoo on their arm in the form of a black ring for each crime. This practice was used for a century and a half - until 1870.

In the 18th century, applying a beautiful tattoo became one of the ways attracting clients from courtesans. Oiran and Tayu, with the help of tattoos, could circumvent the law that prohibited showing the naked body. Beautiful tattoo designs acted as a substitute for clothing, and at the same time the girl became even more desirable. In this case, only the face, feet and palms were free from tattoos. Sometimes feelings would flare up between the courtesan and her client, and then they would get tattoos together. For example, as a proof of fidelity, tattoos were made on the hands in the form of moles. The lovers also wrote each other's names along with a hieroglyph meaning the word "fate."

The art of tattooing also spread thanks to famous theater actors, who saw in it an unusual method of achieving expression during the performance process. In the second half of the 18th century, one of the most luxurious tattoos belonged to the cult actor Nakamura Utaemon IV. Over time, some representatives of the nobility began to follow the example of the actors.

The time on the border of the 18th and 19th centuries is an era heyday of Japanese style in tattooing. The works of the masters were no longer just decoration, but carried with them a deep meaning.
Samurai tattooed cherry blossoms and chrysanthemums, demonstrating that they were ready to die during battle at any time, as they had sufficient determination. The cherry and its short life symbolized the transience of human existence. And the life path of a samurai was comparable to cherry blossoms.

And it was the samurai who first began to apply tattoos to the entire body. And such a tradition was born thanks to their outfit - Jinbaori- military sleeveless jacket. Therefore, instead of sleeves, tattoos were made, symbolizing heroism, valor and the fight against enemies.

Yakuza tattoos

The first yakuza used tattoos to demonstrate status. The Yakuza perceived getting a tattoo as a test of fortitude, since this procedure in those days was very lengthy and quite painful. In addition, the Yakuza in the Edo era began to treat tattoos as an element of their attire. The yakuza who became the owner of a tattoo was subjected to a ritual of exclusion from members of civil society and automatic entry into a separate community. After which the yakuza could no longer marry a girl from a “normal” family, he was not hired to work in the institution, of course, if he was not controlled by a criminal group.
The most popular tattoos among the Yakuza were:

"Kintaro"- a drawing of a mythical character, a soach, fighting with a huge carp.

"Kyumoryu shishin"- a tattooed hero in Chinese attire, which symbolizes fighting abilities.

"Chou Jun"- a drawing of a hero with a knife in his teeth, symbolizing fortitude and perfect mastery of edged weapons.

"Fudomyo"- a Buddhist mythical creature that guards treasures. This tattoo was given to the yakuza who were involved in smuggling.

Main motives

The Dragon

If we talk about the general topic japanese tattoos, then drawings depicting dragons became the most widespread. This mythological creature symbolizes strength and nobility. Such tattoos, due to their brightness, are most loved by young Japanese. Typically, dragon tattoos are done in the traditional nukibori style, in which the image is always outlined with no transitions.

Tiger

Another popular hero of Japanese tattoos is tiger. Tigers have never been found in the Land of the Rising Sun, but the Japanese are very fond of this animal. This tattoo symbolizes strength, courage and power.

Koi carp

Marine themes have always been popular among the people of Japan, for this reason one of the main characters in tattoo designs is carp, which symbolizes masculinity and steadfastness. Read more about carp.

Sakura

It is known that Japanese women decorated themselves with tattoos just like men. This allowed them to emphasize beauty, grace, meekness, and femininity. Favorite subject women's tattoos There were various floral motifs, as well as sakura, symbolizing the value of every moment of life. In addition, the drawing sakura allowed the fair sex to emphasize her fragility and, at the same time, feminine wisdom.

Fu the dog, which also became known as the "Lion of Buddha", actually resembles a lion more than a dog. This creature is considered a brave and staunch protector. Fu Dog has a terrifying appearance, as if he is preparing to attack his opponent in a jump. This tattoo means courage, justice and selflessness.

Fu Dog is designed to protect family and home well-being. Such an image will protect you from meeting bad people and will keep you from getting into unpleasant situations. Foo Dog has a keen sense of smell, and with this tattoo, luck will always be on your side.

Hanya mask

Hanya in Japanese legends is a terrible demon with fangs and horns, under whose shell hides a vengeful girl. One of the most popular tattoo images, but, despite its appearance, it does not carry anything negative with it. A common version is that this character came to Japan from Tibetan culture, like many other mythical creatures of the Land of the Rising Sun. It was originally the guardian of Buddhism, and "hanya" is synonymous with the word "prana" and means "wisdom". Often, next to the hanya mask, images of sakura flowers, a snake and a bell are made.

The Oni demon is considered one of the most popular mythological characters in Japanese cosmology and usually has a frightening and cruel appearance. Most often this is a horned creature, but at the same time Oni can have a wide variety of physiognomic expressions. According to legend, the demon can take human form. It is interesting that people themselves can become this creature if they often get angry. Despite his cruelty, the Oni demon sometimes becomes a protector of people. And his tattoo image also plays the role of a talisman, which can bring its owner a lot of health and physical strength.

Turtle

The turtle in the East Asian region in general, and in Japan in particular, is a truly legendary creature. At its core, the wise turtle, which also has the gift of healing, is a noble and positive talisman. In addition, the turtle symbolizes longevity, which increases its value as a tattoo image. The lifespan of these creatures can reach a hundred years. This quality is especially revered in the Land of the Rising Sun, where the turtle is perceived as the ruler of the seas and oceans.

Phoenix

This bird, with its spring appearance, symbolizes the fact that all phenomena and creatures in the world do not disappear after death, but are reborn. That is, events are cyclical in nature and constantly repeat themselves. Therefore, you need to understand that everything in the world is interchangeable. The moment will come and the person will disappear to be reborn again. Maybe he will return to this earth in the form of his descendants, or maybe he will be reincarnated. This talisman was given to people by the sun.

A phoenix tattoo allows our spirit to find peace and get rid of the fear of death. The Japanese view the phoenix as a spiritual symbol and use it as a kind of amulet.

Peonies

These flowers were brought to Japan from China, where for many centuries they symbolized prosperity, wealth and success. Therefore, there is nothing strange that among the Japanese, the peony is a symbol of wealth and prosperity that will accompany the owner of this tattoo. But, if you plunge into history, it is not difficult to find out that the peony also symbolized female beauty and emotionality, as well as the ability to keep one’s feelings under control. The owners of this tattoo could be not only the fair sex, but also men. This tattoo made it possible to suppress aggressiveness and anger, which only got in the way in battles.

Execution Tools

As for the tools of work, Japanese craftsmen use bamboo sticks with needles at the end. To apply an image, you may need up to 4 needles, and to fill its surface - a set of 30 connected needles, called “hari”.

How are things now?

It must be said that modern Japan is one of the few countries in which the topic of tattoos is currently taboo. This is explained by the fact that for a long time tattoos were the privilege of Japanese mafia circles, and the authorities still continue to consider this art as semi-criminal.
But, despite everything, Japanese tattooists continue to do their work, passing on their skills and knowledge from generation to generation. Both individual masters, salons and even family clans have gained worldwide fame. Tattoo artists from other countries are gradually improving the quality of their work, but truly in the classic way application japanese tattoo Only masters from Japan within the clans own it.

IN Lately tattoos made in neo-Japanese style. “Neo-Japanese” works within the framework of traditional Japanese motifs, but under the rather strong influence of Western culture. Among the tattoo community, the term "neo-Japanese style" is not generally accepted. It began to be used primarily to differentiate the Japanese style of tattooing before and after World War II. Today, the styles and techniques of tattoo art that were in use before World War II are still alive. However, after the decriminalization of tattooing in 1948, Japanese tattoo culture began to develop under the influence of Western trends. This allowed the Japanese style to spread throughout the world.

Video: the process of creating a neo-Japanese tattoo

Video: sketch development - Chania Mask

Examples of tattoos and sketches in neo-Japanese style from Bloody wave studio

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Japanese style in tattoos: photos, sketches, meaning.

It has been proven that Japanese-style tattoos originated thousands of years ago, but during this time they have not lost any of their popularity. In addition, such tattoos were considered particularly influential, worn by high-ranking people such as the King of Denmark, Frederick IX and, according to unofficial sources, Nicholas II.

By the way, there is currently an unwritten ban on tattoos in Japan. At least the authorities do not accept tattoos as art. It's all about stereotypes, according to which a person with a tattoo is considered a member of the mafia, engaged in dirty deeds.

Japan is a country with unusual traditions and symbolism, completely different from what we are used to. The local culture fascinates us, which is why, by painting our bodies in this style, we try to partially touch its mysteries.

The Japanese style cannot be ignored; just one look at the stunning sketches will captivate you. Tattoos are the most popular Japanese dragon, painted bright colors. According to legend, a tattoo of a mythological creature can protect a person from fire. Often in this style you can see unusual combinations that combine the aggressiveness of animals and the serenity of flowers in the design. This shows a person that everything in the world should be balanced.

The image of sakura on the body is also very symbolic. This makes it clear that life is short, like a cherry blossom blossoming and then falling away.

Japanese tattoo artists are true specialists in their field. Before you pick up a needle, you need to study every detail of the sketch and delve into the bottomless history of this culture.

The article is based on photographs and a translation of the book “The Japanese Tattoo” by Sandi Fellman, with additions.

Irezumi is not easy bright picture, tattooed on the skin. This is a kind of human shield, his guardian. A tattoo can also serve as a warning - “Beware of whoever wears it!” She is similar to the snake-haired Medusa Gorgon from Greek mythology, or the female snake Lamia from Keats' poem...

Curled into a ring, the scaly shine of the lily -
The sparkle of crimson, azure, gold:
The snake was striped like a zebra,
Like a leopard is spotted; the peacock himself
I would fade away next to her in a moment.
And, similar to silver moons,
The reflections played on the wonderful skin.

The skin covered with irezumi, having endured the fiery pain of the needle, becomes the cool skin of a reptile. Images of writhing dragons, lightning in numerous zigzags, fish scales, and ripples from a moving body, which photography cannot capture, increase the defensive and enclosing effect. Do Irezumi speakers protect themselves from their emotions? Are they people protesting against the morality, technology, consumerism and conformism inherent in modern Japan? All that can be said about irezumi is Secrecy and Distance. Secrecy is ensured by strict business suit, completely hiding the tattoo, and Remoteness is the state of mind of the person wearing it, distant from many of the norms and prohibitions of modern society.

Meaning of Japanese carp tattoo

Carp (鯉), called “Koi” in Japan, was brought to the Land of the Rising Sun during the Middle Ages by immigrants from China, a country where it was grown and selected for many centuries. The carp immediately fell in love with local residents, who continued to work on it. appearance, through careful selection. In Chinese and Japanese cuisine, carp is given the place of the king of freshwater fish. It's hard to believe that this bright and whimsical fish, resplendent with gold, red and orange scales, is descended from the common freshwater carp. The beauty of the Koi carp has long made it a popular subject for attractive tattoos for both men and women. Images of carp are characterized by dynamism, rich color scheme and highly decorative.
An ancient Chinese legend, which has also become popular in Japan, says that the brave Koi carp was not afraid to climb up the waterfall to the Dragon Gate, and, as a reward for this feat, was turned into a dragon. This act made the carp a symbol of courage, strength and perseverance in achieving a goal. It is believed that a caught carp, without flinching, takes the blow of a cutting knife. So, the image of a carp can be both a symbol of fearlessness and composure in the face of an inevitable fate - qualities inherent in a real warrior - a samurai. Generally speaking, the meaning of a tattoo can be defined as the desire of its owner to become like a carp in determination, strength and luck, and to increase his well-being thanks to these qualities.

Meaning of Japanese dragon tattoo

In Japan, of all the mythological creatures, the dragon is the most popular. The image of a dragon as a decoration or ornament can be found in all aspects Everyday life. In the mythology of the East, the dragon is a symbol of strength, loyalty, perseverance, nobility, magic, the power of imagination and transformation, a symbol of the ability to go beyond the ordinary and much more. Imperial clothing in Japan is solemnly called “Dragon Robes,” which are decorated with images of dragons, indicating the power of the monarch and the patronage of dragons. Being the lord of the water and air elements, the dragon was also considered a protector from fire, so firefighters revered him. The dragon in its appearance combines parts of other animals, and thus can extract the necessary properties and powers from each creature that is part of it. This is where his omnipotence and universalism lie. The dragon is a serpent with the antlers of a deer, the scales and whiskers of a carp, the four-toed feet of an eagle, the nose of a camel, and flame-shaped protrusions on the shoulders and hips.

This fragment of a dragon tattoo shows its head. Indulging youth tastes, master Horiyoshi III performed this tattoo in the cartoon style of manga (European-style comic books), however, leaving the traditional oriental features - a furry muzzle, a fanged mouth, mustaches, horns and flame-like protrusions on the body. The dragon and its background form the elements of yin - yang - different aspects of a single reality or the interaction and struggle of opposite principles.

Japanese artist Horikin is known for designing and making Japanese-style tattoos on the customer's entire body. However, the customer pictured in the photo asked for only one dragon to be made, perhaps to indicate that he was born in the Year of the Dragon, the fifth year of the Eastern zodiac, or perhaps to “enhance” right hand. In addition, he asked for this tattoo to be done in a Western style, called nukibori by the Japanese, which has recently become popular among Japanese youth. The difference between this method and the traditional Japanese one is that the outline of the picture is filled with a uniform color, without retouching, color transitions or shadows.

Meaning of Kintaro Tattoo

Kintaro ("Golden Boy") (金太郎) is one of the most popular characters in Japanese folklore, and is actually a combination of a local fertility deity (kami) with a real-life historical figure. According to Japanese folk tales and heroic legends, Kintaro, while still a child, possessed remarkable physical strength. His amazing feats and perseverance served as an example of an ideal warrior for the Japanese for thousands of years. In Japanese art, Kintaro is often depicted as a small, naked, red-skinned child who fights and defeats a huge carp. The legend of Kintaro is central to the celebration of Boy's Day, which is celebrated on May 5th. Families with sons place tall poles outside their houses, at the ends of which flutter kites made of paper or fabric representing carp. In this way they want to show that perhaps a new Kintaro lives here. Parents give their children toys in the form of this legendary hero, hoping that they will become as strong and brave as Kintaro.
This tattoo symbolizes strength, courage and bravery. The tattoo is popular among people involved in any kind of martial arts.

This photo shows the work of tattoo artist Khorikin. When this photograph was taken, the person with this image was very ill, and therefore Khorikin suggested that his customer bequeath the tattooed skin to the University Museum. The man himself was not against this, but his relatives strongly objected. According to Japanese law, parts of a person's body, including skin, cannot be used after death without permission from his family. Therefore, this photograph will be the only surviving evidence of this work of art by Master Khorikin.

Another tattoo artist, Horiyoshi II, completely covered the customer's back with an image of Kintaro in the form of an angelic boy fighting a mighty carp. Kintaro wears a blue haramaki (a wide belt of fabric, an apron) covering his hara (belly), which the Japanese consider the source of thinking and plans, the source of feelings. In the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, the seat of the soul and the center of human life was considered not to be the head or heart, but the stomach, which occupies a sort of middle position in relation to the entire body, contributing to a more balanced and harmonious development of man. Particular importance was attached to the navel, since, as it was believed in Japan, the deity of thunderstorms sends diseases through it. Therefore, he was covered with a protective warm sash.

Meaning of Japanese lion tattoo

Japanese lion tattoo. Master Horigoro III.

Guardian Lion or Koma Inu (Korean Dog).
This tattoo was made by artist Horigoro III and depicts a Koma Inu. There is a legend that when the Japanese Empress Jingo in 200 AD. undertook a campaign in Korea, the Korean wang (king) vowed to forever protect the palace of the Japanese emperors. The mythical Korean dog (koma-inu - a dog with the head of a lion), which corresponds to the Chinese guardian lion (kara shishi or jishi), also called the “Lion of Buddha,” was supposed to protect the owner’s house from evil spirits. It was believed that the skin from the head of the Korean dog was unusually durable, and helmets were supposedly made from it that could not be pierced by an arrow. Statues of these creatures, made of stone or porcelain, are installed in front of the entrance to Buddhist sanctuaries, government residences, administrative buildings, tombs of past rulers in China, Japan and some other countries of the Far East. The guardian lion or Korean dog symbolizes protection, power, success and strength. In order to tame their unbridled fury (symbolized by the "yang" symbol), for aesthetic balance, a lion is always depicted next to beautiful flower peony (yin symbol). The dog, as such, is considered a faithful guardian of babies and small children in Japan.

The meaning of the peony flower in a Japanese tattoo

Japanese peony flower tattoo

The symbolic meaning of the peony flower in Japanese culture and art - in this case, in the art of tattooing, like the meaning of many other images, suggests the presence of many options. In China, where the peony originates, it is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity, which ultimately leads to prosperity. One of the meanings that peony received in Japan also characterizes it as a flower of wealth and good luck. For card players, a peony tattoo indicates courage and the ability to take risks. In the same meaning in old times This flower was very popular among the samurai, second only to sakura in popularity. The warriors in their bright armor themselves resembled blooming peonies, and the battle was divided into many one-on-one duels, where everyone tried to stand out and show themselves in all their glory. Then the saying appeared: “during war, look for big flower“, that is, find a worthy opponent, take risks. Therefore, the peony symbolizes a desperately brave person.
But there is also the exact opposite meaning of this beautiful flower. It can be a symbol of harmony, female beauty and spring. In a tattoo, it is intended to soften the too harsh, straightforward meaning of some other images, giving them a different symbolic orientation. For example, in the case of Korean dog and lion, images of peonies turn these fierce guards into loyal followers of beauty and gallant treatment, but only if the bearer of the tattoo is treated properly. In the opposite case, the peony becomes an additional warlike sign.

The meaning of cherry blossoms in a tattoo

For this tattoo, Horioshi III turned to the subjects of the ukiyo-e series (prints) made by Utamaro and depicting beautiful women from the Yoshiwara "gay quarters" in some Japanese cities in the 18th century. Many of these women themselves had tattoos on their bodies. Japanese cherry blossoms - sakura are one of the most famous symbols of Japan, and are very popular as a tattoo. Cherry blossoms in early spring, and very quickly loses the petals of its flowers. The short duration of this delicate beauty inevitably made sakura a symbol short life a warrior and a short period of youth and attractiveness of a courtesan. To give a hint of eroticism, the depicted courtesan was given cherry-colored shadows around her passionate eyes.

The meaning of maple leaves

KINTARO AND MAPLE LEAVES. This tattoo once again shows Kintaro in mortal combat with a powerful carp. This time Kintaro is older, fully clothed and armed with a dagger. Maple Leaf in China and Japan it has many meanings - it can symbolize love, autumn, perseverance (since maple is not afraid of winter cold). In this case, the leaves can also mean a long, stubborn struggle. On the left, in the upper part of the back, the signature of Master Horiti is visible.

Meaning of Japanese Rat Tattoo

Irezumi. Rat. Tattoo by master Khorikin.

THE RAT IS A NINJA.
The customer was born in the year of the Rat, which opens the 12-year cycle Eastern Calendar. He chose this beast as a tattoo on his back, which was performed by master Khorikin. It is difficult to explain why the rat, this rodent pest, was glorified in Japanese mythology. However, the rat is associated with the deity of wealth, one of the seven gods of fortune, and is depicted scurrying among bales of rice. It is also a symbol of fertility, as seen in this humorous tattoo of a huge parent rat surrounded by squeaking, hungry babies.
But in addition, the rat also symbolizes the ancient Japanese art of ninjutsu - the art of camouflage, espionage and sabotage. Ninjas were secret agents, like rats, who could quietly penetrate enemy castles in order to steal, spy, or commit murder. Ninjas were very cautious and preferred to operate at night, where it was easier to remain invisible under the cover of darkness. It was believed that the most skilled ninjas were able to change their shape through witchcraft. The same ability was attributed to the rat itself. The character of the Kabuki theater, the sorcerer Nikki Danjo, during the course of the performance turns into a huge rat or into trees in order to carry out his unseemly deeds.

Phoenix Tattoo Meaning

For the tattoo on his wife's back, Horiyoshi III chose the image of the legendary phoenix bird - a mythical eternal creature capable of being reborn again and again from the ashes after it burns itself in fire. In this case, the phoenix symbolizes eternal love and hope for rebirth after death.

The meaning of the Japanese spider web tattoo.

The client asked for a “subtle and detailed image” to be created on his armpit, one of the most painful areas to tattoo, as well as one of the most dangerous. There are many sweat glands located here, and when the needle pricks in this place, profuse sweat production begins. The hair on his armpits gave Khorikin the idea to depict a spider’s web in this place. In Japan, a spider has a dual meaning: if you see a spider during the day, it promises good luck, but if you see one at night, it is a bad omen. The web, as an outstanding natural phenomenon, clearly evokes respect among the Japanese, but, nevertheless, the image of the spider as a symbol of the inconsistency of nature - it creates beauty only in order to grab and kill - causes concern among Japanese tattooists and their customers.

Kabuki Benten character - Kozo

Benten - Kozo was one of the most popular and beloved characters from the Kabuki theater repertoire. He was a noble robber, and his beauty allowed him to pass himself off as a woman to carry out his crimes. In one of the scenes, after he robs a jewelry store, a modest and noble girl suddenly tears off her kimono and shows the audience a man’s tattooed body. This is exactly the moment that master Horijin depicts in the tattoo. The customer's back is divided by a tattoo - if on the left Benten still remains in women's clothing, then on the right he shows the tattoo on his body. The swirling swirls around Benten are not just a decoration of the composition, they indicate the character's violent and chaotic lifestyle.

Wind and lightning

In this unfinished tattoo by Horiyoshi III, the round solar plexus medallion, shown between two nipple-wrapping dragon tails, is likely the emblem of the yakuza gang (a similar group of like-minded people is called "nakama"). The emblem is a stylized image of a rice pot, and has a hidden meaning: “he who eats from the same pot is a brother.” On the right side of the chest is the god of the winds, Fujin, one of the twelve bodhisattvas - the kings of Buddhism, who is always depicted as a terrible demon, which he was before he went over to the side of the Buddha. Here he fights a comical, laughing rain dragon.

Moderation

This tattoo was made by master Horijin. One of the oldest styles in Japanese tattooing, which remains popular today, is the “river” (“kawa”) style, since a strip of clear skin runs down the center of the body, from top to bottom, like a river. The tattoo was made in such a way that traditional everyday Japanese clothing - happi (jacket with short narrow sleeves) and mompei (short, knee-length pants) completely hid it. Now she lets you wear a shirt with short sleeves and shorts. Such a “river” or “quarter of the body” was supposed to prevent the removal of skin after the death of a person, since it did not allow the irezumi composition to be preserved intact.
The left nipple is shaped like a peony flower, while from the right nipple a waterfall flows down, the streams of which show a carp persistently making its way to the top to be reborn into a dragon. On the right bicep there is a horned dragon, as if illustrating the ultimate goal of the stubborn carp. The dragon's tail ends on the left arm, where it is shown among the clouds. A man wears traditional Japanese underwear - a fundoshi (loincloth).

Perseverance

On this tattoo, master Horijin depicted an episode of the famous Chinese parable about how a mother lioness carried her beloved little cub down into a gorge. She herself climbed the mountain, and from there she called him to her, encouraging him to make the difficult climb. Thus, the lioness tried to teach him perseverance and endurance. This parable of survival of the fittest symbolized the Confucian view of ideal parents who sacrifice their feelings so that their children grow up to be resilient and persistent.

Excerpt

This tattoo by Horijin shows Kurikara Kengoro, one of the noble robbers from the novel Suikoden. A scene is shown where the hero twists a bamboo stalk, trying to relieve anger and fighting the temptation to commit an evil act. Next to him is shown his patron buddhist deity Fudo.

Jealousy

The tattoo was made, not without European influence, by master Horiyoshi III, and shows the traditional appearance of the Japanese two-horned demon (oni), in this case the demon of jealousy. Japanese folklore often mentions jealous women who grow similar horns on their heads. During wedding ceremony they hide them under the bride's headdress. Nowadays, many young Japanese people prefer to get these types of horrific and downright hooligan tattoos rather than stick to traditional themes.

Heikuro and the snake

For this tattoo, master Horikin chose the image of Saga-no-ike Heikuro, one of the 108 tattooed heroes of the adventurous Chinese short story “Suikoden”, translated into Japanese by Kyokutei Bakin in 1805. The heroes of this work were glorified thanks to numerous engravings in the Ukiyo-e style (direction visual arts Japan during the Edo period) in the middle. XIX century, made by such famous artists as Utagawa, Kuniyoshi, Toyokuni and Kunisada. The tattoo shows Heikuro's mortal fight with a giant snake. The tattoo is made so skillfully that you feel the power of the writhing serpent and the strength of the valiant Heikuro with every movement of the tattooed body.

Endurance

Peonies tattooed around the nipples and belly button attract a butterfly, just as the waves rolling off the cliffs attract the intrepid carp. Above the solar plexus, Master Horijin placed the hieroglyphs “Shinobu,” which means “endurance.” This word has another meaning when applied to the secret symbolism of irezumi: “to be secretive, to live a secret life.”

Transcendence

Horikin designed this design for his head (the "abode of all senses"), which was then tattooed by Horigoro III, Horikin II (his brother and student), and Horyoshi III. Here the art of tattooing is combined with the art of calligraphy. The large red symbols are a form of the deity name Akala in Sanskrit. The name of the deity is repeated a hundred times in small black symbols, and the image itself resembles a seated Buddha. This is the second case of a head tattoo in Japanese history. The first belonged to Horikama, who died in 1932.

Characters from Kabuki theater

This photograph shows two people's tattoos combined to represent a scene from a Kabuki performance, a traditional Japanese theater performance. On the left is one of the heroic figures of the 17th century, trying to rip the jaws of a mythological snake-like monster (actually a sorcerer), while a frightened courtesan looks on (this character can be recognized by the obi belt tied in front, which is a humorous allusion to the fact that , that she spends a lot of time lying on her back due to her profession).

Vortex

Horikin is perhaps the most skilled and knowledgeable tattoo artist in modern Japan, and one of his is shown here. best works. In addition to the fact that the work shown is very complex in execution, it uses unusual colors– a combination of purple, white and yellow in addition to the more traditional black, green, red and blue flowers. This extensive tattoo covers the entire body of the customer, with the exception of the face, hands and feet. Among the many images on the customer's stomach, one can see a dragon, a Buddhist prayer and two symbolic opposing images of vortex flows.

Trophy

In this case, another side of irezumi is shown - the image of a grotesque character, that is, the image of something strange, eccentric and even ugly. These tattoos by Master Horiyoshi show severed heads, reflecting the ancient samurai tradition of collecting the heads of slain enemies as trophies as proof of prowess. Combined with a Buddhist prayer running diagonally across the hips, this image can also be interpreted as an oath to adhere to one's faith until death, and, if necessary, to lay down one's head for it. Both the artist and his customer belong to the Horiyoshi clan, whose tattoos are often sadomasochistic in nature.

Eden (Paradise).

An even more grotesque image than the previous one. Young Japanese people often get tattoos that depict something ugly and horrifying in its cruelty, as seen in this tattoo by Horiyoshi III. Once again, flowers and cherry petals are shown here - sakura - the national flower of Japan, symbolizing the transience of life. In addition, the tattoo shows a serpent - the tempter. Probably, there was some influence here from the Christian legend of the Garden of Eden, only in the Japanese vision. The composition is complemented by severed bloody heads.

Seppuku

Seppuku. Tattoo by an unknown artist.

The tattoo shows a man after he has committed ritual hara-kiri (suicide by cutting the abdomen). The Japanese themselves often call this terrible ritual seppuku.
It is believed that the ancestors of the Japanese borrowed the ritual of seppuku, like many other aspects of their culture and life, from the practice of the indigenous population of Japan - the Ainu. The ritual was cultivated among the samurai class, and thus a warrior could prove the strength of his spirit and purity of thoughts, or rehabilitate himself before society and the gods in the event of a serious offense. Typically, seppuku was committed by the verdict of the Court of Honor, and in the case of voluntary death - due to serious injury or illness, the danger of capture, unfulfilled orders or the inability to achieve the goal. Sometimes this suicide was committed by warriors who had lost their leader and patron, as a sign of devotion. The reason for suicide could be the most insignificant from the point of view of Europeans - the military class often flaunted its ability to accept a painful death at any moment in order to demonstrate to others its incredible fearlessness and achieve posthumous glory.

Taboo

Irezumi. Tattoos - prayer “Nam yoho renge kyo”.

These people were tattooed by two artists - Horikin, for the one on the left, and Horigoro II, for the one on the right. The prayer "Nam yoho renge kyo" ("Glory to the Lotus Sutra of the Good Dharma!") comes from the fanatical Nichiren Buddhist sect, founded in 1253, and currently has about six million followers who enjoy singing and drumming. Followers of this teaching believe that constant, sincere repetition of this prayer will help everyone achieve Nirvana. On the left there is a man on whom a prayer is tattooed in red diagonally, from the right shoulder to the left thigh, and from the bottom up from the right thigh there is the same prayer, executed in gold and inverted. The tattoo is made in this way, perhaps in order to show that the Buddha's mercy extends in all directions and for everyone who believes in his power, no matter how vicious the person may be. The special eccentricity of both tattoos is that they even extend to the genitals. The penis is the last part of the human body that can be tattooed, as it is the most painful procedure of all. Two assistants must hold the skin taut while the tattooist applies the design to tiny areas. Many customers lose consciousness from severe pain.

Water

The works of master Khorikin delight in the skill of depicting living beings. It also slightly changes the traditional theme of the image. In this tattoo, young Kintaro is riding a huge, slippery catfish, and the red gold fish makes its way to spawn up the descending stream on the other thigh. The Lotus Sutra runs obliquely along the left thigh. Another catfish is shown there, wedged into the inscription.

Fire and Water

Below are the different tattoos done on the legs. The images as a whole fall under the definition of “the union of two principles - yin and yang” - the eternal struggle of two opposite principles, thanks to which all changes occur in the world we observe. Shown are flames and waves, dragon claws and carp, autumn leaves and clouds, turtles and gods of fortune with bags overflowing with worldly goods, which they generously bestow on worthy people.

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