Irezumi
The Art of Japanese Tattoo
History
The Japanese word irezumi refers to the insertion of ink under the skin (basically Japanese for tattoo). There are several ways to write the word, the most common using the Chinese characters literally meaning "insert ink".
The tradition of tattooing in Japan is thought to extend as far back as the Paleolithic period (10,000 year BCE). This is supported by archeological studies of figurines found from this era decorated with distinctive chord marked patterns on their faces and bodies.
Chinese visiting Japan during the following Yayo period (300BCE-300AD) take note of the elaborate tattoos worn by many Japanese. It is believed that, during this era, the motivation behind irezumi was spiritual. It also served as a symbol of high social status.
SIDE NOTE: The Ainu, or native Japanese peoples, had their own tattooing tradition, however it is believed to have no relation to the development of what we know to be irezumi.
For a few hundred years the Japanese tattoo tradition fluctuated. It was during the Edo period (1600AD-1868AD) when Japanese decorative tattoos started to develop into what we know as irezumi today. This development can be greatly attributed to the arrival of Japanese woodblock art and more importantly, the release of the novel Suikoden, wherein woodblock illustrations portray warriors covered in lavish tattoos depicting dragons and other mythical beasts, flowers, tigers, and religious symbols. The novel's immediate success leads to an enormous growth in demand for this type of tattoo.
Many of the woodblock artists of the era become tattoo artists. They even use the same tools, such as chisels, gouges and the unique ink known as Nara, famous for its color change from black to either blue or green when inserted into the skin.
The Yakuza
The art of irezumi is known by many as the mark of the Yakuza. The word Yakuza means "8-3-9". The name originates from the game Oicho-kabu, the Japanese counterpart to Black Jack. The goal in Oicho-kabu is to get 19 (21 in black jack). With an 8, 9, and 3, you have a score of 20, which is of no worth in Oicho-kabu. This symbolism represents how the Yakuza view themselves in the context of their society, not that they are worthless but are more like misfits. The mafia-like Japanese crime organization know as the Yakuza began sometime during the 17th century with a rise in the popularity of gambling. The first members were the bakuto (gamblers) and the tekiya (street vendors).
The Yakuza have adopted irezumi as a way of marking themselves. The fact that the Yakuza endure hours of pain getting these full body tattoos reflects members' dedication to the criminal organization. It also represents their view of themselves, offset from the rest of society, not to mention these tattoos are incredibly intimidating. However, it is the tradition of the Yakuza to completely cover their tattoos in public, believeing that such art should only be viewed in private. Though irezumi is the distinct characteristic of the Yakuza, they are not the only ones who choose to wear these elaborate tattoos. Today around the world, irezumi is enjoyed as a legitimate and celebrated art as well as the tell tale mark of the infamous Yakuza.
Designs and Symbols
The most popular irezumi designs include depictions of "Tsuzoku Suikoden Goketsu Hyakuhachinin" (108 Warriors of Suikoden). Each warrior has individual qualities that appeal to the wearer, for example, the Yakuza often choose renegade warriors known for their ferocity and disregard for common law.
Kabuki, a form Japanese theatre, is also a big inspiration in irezumi designs and it is not uncommon to see depictions of elaborate Kabuki masks in a tattoo.
Benten Kozo, a legendary hero who disguises himself as a woman and upon discovery throws his clothing off revealing a heavily tattooed man, is another very popular character portrayed in irezumi.
Mythical beasts are also commonly found in irezumi designs, the most popular being the dragon. The dragon represents wealth and is also believed to protect one from fire, being a beast of both air and water. The Japanese dragon has the talons of an eagle, the antlers of a deer, the nose of a goblin, and is almost always depicted with whiskers or a moustache.
The Koi fish (or carp) is another mythical creature often found in irezumi designs. It represents knowledge, longevity, wisdom and loyalty. In legend the Koi are transformed through their efforts and perseverance, many times turning into dragons.
Horiyoshi III
To this day, the artist known as Horiyoshi III is the undisputed master of irezumi and still works today in his studio in Yokohoma, Japan. He has published numerous sketch books, including 36 Ghosts, 108 Heroes of Suikoden, 100 Demons, and The Namakubi (a collection of drawings depicting severed heads). Watch the following videos of the master at work. Observe the time honored technique of tattooing by hand without a machine. After viewing these videos, one can easily see how tedious and painful a traditional irezumi tattoo can be.
Compare the tone of these videos about Horiyoshi III to this clip of an episode of The National Geografic Channel's Taboo.
www.dreadloki.com/pivot/pivot/entry.php
http://japanesetattoos.net/
http://www.horiyoshi3.com/
Comments (2)
Erica Layton said
at 2:12 pm on Feb 10, 2009
tight
Ryan Deal said
at 3:03 pm on Feb 10, 2009
like a 12 year old boy!
You don't have permission to comment on this page.