Watercolor carp tattoo on shoulder, photo from: https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu6zPovABkT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Koi carp entered tattoo culture as one of the symbols of the Irezumi, a Yakuza tattoo. In the language of signs, a fish with golden scales denotes greatness, imperial power and masculine strength. The number of meanings grew after the integration of the sketch into the European and American tradition. With the appearance of images of two continents in the pantheon, carps adorn the skin of not only men, but also women.

Who is a tattoo suitable for?

Carp, a tattoo originally of a masculine nature. In the Land of the Rising Sun, the design of a carp on a woman’s body is considered unacceptable; it can be stuffed for exceptional merit. This is because the originally golden Koi is associated with the energies of male fertility and. The energy of the sign is not suitable for soft and vulnerable girls, as it can cause a serious imbalance in the emotional state.

Koi tattoo is suitable for purposeful and strong individuals. It enhances the qualities of perseverance and toughness of character. It will fit perfectly into the life of a leader who leads people. If you strive to dominate, conquer and set your own rules, carp is the ideal assistant.

Koi Tattoo Meanings

Japanese carp ranks first in popularity among oriental motifs in tattoos. This fish has more admirers than sakura. The frequency of tattoo orders competes with the eastern dragon.

Popular interpretations of carp:

• fortitude;
• male fertility;
• leadership, power;
• longevity, immortality;
• imperial child;
• harmony;
• joy of life;
• meditation;
• search for perfection;
• finding yourself.

The choice of this symbol is not accidental. The owner strives for perfection, tries to master his destiny. He is not afraid of difficulties; he makes his plans based on sober calculation and tactics. The tattoo is suitable for leaders and strong-willed individuals who are ready to defend their beliefs.

Carp tattoo meaning for men

Tattoos are considered traditionally masculine symbols. Carp brings power and confidence to its owner. This is a harmonious symbol of life at the junction of two worlds - land and water. The carp itself is considered a symbol of the sun. This gives it a unique energy charge.

Interpretation of Koi tattoo:

• a charming and collected person;
• hero;
• good friend;
• leader;
• sense of humor with a dose of irony;
• control over the situation;
• energetic and calm person;
• enthusiasm;
• wealth;
• reliable father;
• undisputed leader.

Karp successfully helps in the lives of psychologists, journalists, businessmen, TV presenters, sports coaches and athletes. It is suitable for people who strive for independence. Strengthens the qualities of character that allow a person to surround himself with a caring society. Koi natives have a reputation for being reliable and loved by the group.

The meaning of carp tattoo for girls

Even among orthodox rules there are exceptions. In a new interpretation, the symbol is adapted for girls. However, there are limitations here, since the sign still carries tough masculine energy. This is a sketch for purposeful and balanced natures. Like men, tattoos are suitable for leaders and strong personalities.

The meaning of tattoos for girls:

• the desire to be the best;
• irreplaceable assistant;
• loving and faithful companion;
• mistress of her own destiny;
• calmness and self-confidence;
• optimistic character;
• passionate lover;
• wit and charm.

Tattoo sleeve, photo from: https://www.instagram.com/p/BusdB-uF5Rq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

For girls, drawing brings prosperity achieved through their own efforts. The brighter the tattoo, the more luck in financial matters it will bring. However, the main rule is to achieve success on your own without relying on circumstances or outside help.

Tattoo options, styles, compositions

Japanese fish tattoo performed according to the laws of the irezumi genre. Traditional images require detailed elaboration of the drawing. The carp should have clearly visible gill covers, reminiscent of a commander's helmet.

Scales are associated with armor. A strong tail is a symbol of life direction and the ability to turn the situation to your advantage. That is why it is often depicted bent to the right side for women and to the left side for men. Fins are a symbol of a weapon that will never become dull.

New trends gave tattoos their own shape. Images from rice scrolls made in ink are transferred in watercolor style. Realistic drawings in 3D or realism are also extremely popular. To transfer the image, shading techniques from graphics, dot finishing techniques, and building a composition from sketch style are used.

In the eastern part of the world, carp is treated with great respect as a symbol of longevity and determination. After all, this fish can swim long distances even along stormy rivers. For the Chinese and Japanese, carp is the personification of masculinity, its strength and creativity.

Koi carp is the best representative of the fish family. This is a fish that has a chance, after going through trials, to turn into a river dragon. Therefore, the meaning of a koi tattoo is explained by the desire for a higher goal, which may seem unattainable to others.

Getting this carp on your body is necessary for those people who want to achieve great heights in their career or on the path of enlightenment. Koi fish can add energy and self-confidence to its owner. This tattoo can be considered a lucky talisman. Moreover, the larger the size of the depicted koi carp, the more strength and determination it can give to a person.

Some may find this tattoo boring and gray. If you want to depict a carp in red colors, then you need to remember one thing. For the Japanese, red carp is a sign of the feminine, so men should avoid this tattoo color.

And remember: no matter what the koi carp tattoo design is, the main thing is that it is unique!

Koi tattoo video

Below are photos of tattoos depicting koi carp from different artists.

Koi carp tattoo is a motif that originated in Japanese culture, and then, thanks to its extraordinary beauty, spread throughout the world. In the article we will analyze the meaning of carp tattoos for men and women, and also consider beautiful sketches and photos of finished works.

Cultural significance of koi fish

Koi belong to the carp family - common freshwater fish. They were originally bred as a source of food, but later their breeding became a noble hobby that was considered a symbol of high social status.

Japanese carps have special cultural significance for Asian people.

Koi carps, in addition to their extraordinary beauty, have a special ability to swim against the current. According to legend, if a Japanese carp could climb the Dragon Gate Falls along the Yellow River, it would eventually turn into a dragon.

It is believed that the yin yang element represents images of two koi fish - a male and a female with dots in each half, which are their eyes.

Meaning of carp tattoo

Possessing a rich cultural history, carp tattoos have accumulated many symbolic meanings and associations. The main message of the drawing focuses on the fish's ability to resist the current and climb up waterfalls. This fact leads to the association of koi tattoos with courage, ambition and perseverance. The tendency to go against the grain also suggests overcoming obstacles and succeeding in the face of adversity.

Also, koi carp has meanings associated with happiness, prosperity, success and longevity. Two carp are considered a symbol of good luck for a long and happy marriage.

In Japan, carp tattoos change their meaning depending on their color, for example:

• The golden koi (Yamabuki) symbolizes wealth and prosperity;
• Silver Koi (Obon) signifies success in business;
• (Kumonryu) Black carp is a symbol of life changes and transformations;
• White Koi (Kohaku) – symbolizes career success;
• The white and red koi (Kuchibeni) represents love, long-term relationships, energy and courage.

The blue carp tattoo is a symbol of potency and masculine strength.

Also, the tattoo takes into account specific components and aspects, such as the size of the picture, the orientation of the design, the location of the fish and their number.

Design ideas for carp tattoos

This motif can be depicted in any style, although they are most often applied in the traditional Japanese aesthetic: with clearly defined shapes and bright colors.

Two fish arranged in a Yin and Yang shape are the most popular design.

In order to add additional meaning to the tattoo, it can be diluted with other elements and symbols. These can be lotuses or other flower arrangements, dragons, water, Chinese or Japanese characters, etc.

Placement Guide

One of the benefits of koi tattoo designs is that they are versatile. They can vary in size from small drawings to quite large images covering the entire back.

The most popular place on the body where this motif is applied is the hands. Most often, the entire area on the arm is clogged with fish, forming a kind of sleeve. This option is especially popular with men and young guys. Women most often apply the design only to the forearm.

For the same reasons, legs are also a popular place for tattoos. In addition, thanks to their large surface area, the thighs can be printed with bolder designs.

For the largest or most complex artistic tattoos, the back, chest or thighs are used.

Koi fish tattoo: photo

Below are photos of the best works of masters from around the world. In the gallery you will find feminine motifs for girls and brutal sketches for men. We hope that this selection will help you decide on the design of your future drawing.

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

Irezumi is not just a 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 woman - the snake Lamia from Keats's 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 a strict business suit that completely hides the tattoo, and Distance 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 its 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 distinguished by dynamism, rich colors and high decorativeness.
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 the dragon as decoration or ornament can be found in all aspects of daily 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 is 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 in the photograph 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 “emphasize” 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 defend 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), a beautiful peony flower (symbolized by yin) is always depicted next to the lion for aesthetic balance. 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 former times this flower was extremely popular among 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 a 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, feminine 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 the Korean dog and lion, images of peonies turn these fierce guardians 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 a series of ukiyo-e (engravings) made by Utamaro and depicting beautiful women from the “gay quarters” of Yoshiwara in some Japanese cities of 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 of the short life of a warrior and the 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. The maple leaf in China and Japan has many meanings - it can symbolize love, autumn, perseverance (since the 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 of the 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 get a tattoo on, 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 - while on the left Benten still remains in women's clothing, 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 it allows you to wear a short-sleeved shirt 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 maintaining the integrity of the irezumi composition.
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 bandits from the Suikoden novel. 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 the Buddhist deity Fudo who patronizes him.

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 the 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 (the direction of Japanese fine art 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 time a head tattoo has occurred in Japanese history. The first belonged to Horikama, who died in 1932.

Characters from Kabuki theater

This photo 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 some of his best work is shown here. In addition to being quite complex in execution, the work shown uses unusual colors - a combination of purple, white and yellow in addition to the more traditional colors of black, green, red and blue. 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 rides a slithery, huge catfish while a red goldfish makes its way up a cascading stream on his other thigh to spawn. The Lotus Sutra runs diagonally across 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 luck with bags overflowing with worldly goods, which they generously bestow on worthy people.

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The carp tattoo initially became widespread in Japan and China due to the rich ancient culture of the states, so the symbol has two interpretations. A carp tattoo design is usually done in bright colors, and such a design is applied to the shoulder or back, less often - to the calf or thigh.

The Chinese carp (koi) is considered the king of all fish that live in the depths of the world. Hence, the carp sign rightfully means absolute power and leadership over others.

According to legend, any carp that can swim across the Yellow River upstream will turn into a Dragon, which is why the Chinese sometimes call this fish the dragon.

This legend gave rise to the interpretation of carp as a symbol of inspiration for everyone who has set difficult and ambitious goals. Having made such a tattoo, the wearer, as it were, receives a blessing for his deeds, and the larger the area of ​​the body the image occupies, the more luck it will bring.

The life of this fish in nature is associated with an endless struggle with the current, searching for food and places for spawning. Therefore, the modern interpretation of a carp tattoo is incredible willpower, thirst for life, struggle and the ability to survive in any conditions.

In the East, the longevity of carp has long been admired; Buddhists also considered it a symbol of courage and independence.

Previously, in Japan it was a purely masculine sign. The Japanese even had a tradition: when a boy was born in the house, canvases depicting this fish were hung outside. But then the meaning of the symbol changed - the carp became the patron of the family hearth: a black fish is a symbol of the father, bright red - the mother, blue or white - the boy-son, pink - the daughter.

An image of a carp is made on the body, usually in the Japanese or Chinese style, surrounded by water, sometimes decorated with cherry or lotus flowers, and sometimes together with a dragon or a second carp. There is a sketch of a tattoo of a carp with a dragon's head.

Another modern meaning of a carp tattoo is a group of qualities such as wisdom, rich life experience, spiritual development, love of life, energy, justice, luck, belligerence, longevity, harmony of the soul.

If a carp is depicted on the body, struggling with the current, this means that the person is on the way to achieving some important goal throughout his life, but if the fish on the tattoo is swimming with the flow, on the contrary, this is a symbol of solving the problem.

A tattoo with two carp is a sign of a harmonious relationship between a man and a woman in marriage, their successful union.

A carp tattoo is more suitable for purposeful, independent and persistent individuals who know what they want from life and who always have room to develop.

The main places of application are chest, back, sleeves, shoulder, side, calf. Most often applied in color, and is ideal for both men and women.

Carp tattoo video

Below are photos of tattoos depicting carp from different artists.