The origins of Japanese tattooing, or Irezumi Tattoo, are traced back to around 5000 B.C., a date attributed to some clay figurines featuring tattooed faces. However, the Irezumi style as we understand it today only began to develop between the 17th and 19th centuries with the spread of xylographic art and printing.

Early tattoos had a function of spiritual protection and depicted courageous and fascinating human figures. Those who possessed tattoos were mostly peasants, laborers and in general, individuals belonging to social classes considered inferior, this contributed over time to their negative connotation.

Tattoos were associated with low social status, conceived negatively and even banned for the Japanese. This prohibition did not touch travelers, however, so artists began to tattoo them: it was mainly sailors who lent themselves to the execution of tattoos, and by traveling by sea they spread Japanese art around the world, increasing the importance of this style.

THE CHARACTERISTICS OF AN IREZUMI TATTOO

In Irezumi Tattoos, nothing is left to chance: details and details are meticulously cared for, reflecting the quest for perfection and beauty of Japanese culture. From the choice of subjects, to the combinations, to the location-everything is designed to give the tattoo a deep personal meaning.

THE SUBJECTS.

Japanese tattoo subjects are many: colorful and large human, animal and natural figures.

Common animal subjects include the koi carp, tiger, dragon, phoenix, and Fo dog. Other popular subjects include Samurai, Demons, cherry blossoms and lotus flowers. Each of these depictions is associated with precise and often profound meanings.

In Japanese tattooing the contrast between background and main subjects is very sharp. The latter are characterized by very saturated and uniform colors, often without the presence of shading in the main figures. Only in the background are there gray/black fills that are not, however, true shades.

THE EXECUTION BETWEEN ANCIENT AND MODERN TECHNIQUES

In Japanese tradition, Irezumi Tattoos are performed without the use of a machine, using the so-called tebori technique. It involves making the tattoo by hand by means of a bamboo stick that has needles arranged in rows at its end. This is a very ancient technique, handed down by experienced masters to their students.

In the present day, however, there are many tattoo artists who have opted for making Irezumi with a machine. This is to improve the timing, cleanliness, and clients' perception of pain. Generally, the subjects of Irezumi are transferred with the stencil, while the decorations are drawn freehand.

Regarding the use of needles, while in the past enlarged Round Liners were used with heating, today most tattoo artists rely on Round Shaders, which are considered more practical as well as economical.