Though the image of the human skull in much of tattoo culture and art in general has come to have a negative connotation (such as death, danger, and an ill fate), the skull used in Japanese tattoos was intended to be a positive representation of the natural life cycle. As a symbol of good luck, it was also though to bring good health. The snake can also embody regeneration, healing, and medicine as it was revered in Japanese culture in association with medicinal rites and remedies. Snake tattoos also represent wisdom and protection, particularly from the results of bad decisions. Snake tattoos are attributed to protection from illness, disaster, and bad fortune. As tattoos they serve as protectors and often indicate a courageous person with heroic aspirations. Lion or Fu-Dog tattoos:įu Dogs are said to be protective, strong, and courageous. They are said to control the wind, and they are one of the four sacred animals. The tiger is a symbol for both the North and for autumn. The tiger tattoo is also used to ward off evil spirits, bad luck, and disease. The Japanese tiger tattoo carries with it the same traits we attribute to the real animal: strength and courage. Regardless of its origin, phoenix tattoos symbolize rebirth and triumph, as well a renewal and rebuilding of one’s self. The Japanese phoenix story draws its source from a story that originates in main land China. ![]() The phoenix story exists almost all cultures. For this reason, Koi symbolize strength, bravery, determination and a strong desire to succeed. Koi who made it past the Dragons Gate were said to be rewarded by turning into dragons. The Koi in China were known to attempt to swim upstream in the Yellow River, and very few could swim past a point known as the “Dragon’s Gate”. Koi symbolize masculine qualities in traditional Eastern folklore such as strength and bravery. Wisdom is another trait attributed to dragons. In Japanese traditional tattoo art, dragons are generous, benevolent forces that use their strength to do good for mankind. ![]() Typical symbols include dragons, tigers, koi, water, cherry blossoms, phoenix, snakes, Fu dogs, Oni masks and more. Wearing Irezumi is an “Aspiration” to life’s goals. ![]() Eventually the practice faded and tattoos once again became common with regular people. Over time, tattoos in Japanese culture developed as a form of punishment similar to what was seen in Rome where it was common practice to tattoo prisoners of war, criminals, and slaves as a means of making their status in society instantly recognizable. Traditionally Japanese tattoos were a means of conveying societal status, served as spiritual symbols that were often used as a form of charm for protection, and as symbols of devotion.
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