Japanese tattoos are called irezumi. This is an all-encompassing term for all tattoo and body modification methods but is used in the Western sense of being the traditional art of Japan. In this art form, the main attraction is the dragon tattoo. Japanese dragons are one of the most common motifs due to its intricacy and extremely psychedelic appeal.
A Brief History
There are actually multiple variations to the dragon in Japan: the indigenous Tatsu and the foreign varieties. The tatsu are actually more animistic than physical, being manifestations of what a river or a body of water is and the spirits that live in them. The most famous, however, is the personification of lightning, Orochi. He is an eight headed and eight tailed dragon who was killed to gain the most important element of the Imperial Regalia of Japan, the Kusanagi.
The ryu is the most familiar one. It is akin to the Chinese dragon, only differing in the fact that the feet of the dragon only have three fingers as opposed to five. This is due to the fact that the dragon?s feet tells of it?s nationality. According to Japan?s tradition, Japan, where dragons originated, makes 3 fingers, Korea makes 4 fingers and China makes 5 fingers. When you go further the dragons get too many fingers to survive. The Chinese believe in the reverse, stating that they lose fingers until they have no more. The doragon, on the other hand, is the Western incarnation.
Depicting the Forces of Nature
Japan?s dragons symbolize water. This is the main peculiarity between them and the other Asian dragons. Thus, all dragon depictions are fluid and sinuous. Even the scales lend credence to this effect. They are also commonly colored in gold, white or blue, emphasizing the maritime heritage. This is particularly emphasized by the fact that the Japanese believe that the sea is ruled by four dragons, one in each cardinal direction, causing the winds and currents of the sea.
Dragons also symbolize power and majesty. Being one of the four celestial gods, as the seiryu, the dragon is worshipped, revered and feared. This is due to it being calm and placid at first, but when provoked, becomes a deadly catastrophe for anyone who dares. They are also symbols of courage and of fertility. Dragons are also seen as a farmer?s best friend.
A Shared Heritage
Japanese tattoos done the traditional way are called irezumi. This involves the use of bamboo flints to pierce the skin and apply the color. While the results are astounding and excellent, this takes a long time to complete, sometimes years for a small area. Thus, most have already adapted the Western practice of using machines. However, the designs are still completely Japan in flavor and motif.
Learn all there is to know about Japanese tattoos specifically the Japanese Dragon Motif in our overview of the best Japanese tattoo designs. Also published at Japanese Tattoos With The Japanese Dragon.
Source: http://noelinfoservices.com/Internet_and_Businesses_Online/archives/11171
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