Japanese Tattoos: History * Culture * Design [Paperback]

Thinking of getting a Japanese-style tattoo? Want to avoid a permanent mistake?Japanese Tattoosis an insider's look at the world of Japaneseirezumi(tattoos).

Japanese Tattoosexplains the imagery featured in Japanese tattoos so that readers can avoid getting ink they don't understand or, worse, that they'll regret. This photo-heavy book also traces the history of Japanese tattooing, putting the iconography andkanjisymbols in their proper context so readers will be better informed as to what they mean and have a deeper understanding ofirezumi. Featured tattoos range from traditionaltebori(hand-poked) andkanjitattoos to anime-inspired and modern works—as well as everything in between. For the first time, Japanese tattooing is put together in a visually attractive, informative, and authoritative way.

Along with the 350+ photos of tattoos,Japanese Tattoosalso features interviews with Japanese tattoo artists on a variety of topics. What's more, it contains interviews with clients, who are typically overlooked in similar books, allowing them to discuss what their Japanese tattoos mean to them. Those who read this informative tattoo guide will be more knowledgeable about Japanese tattoos should they want to get inked or if they are merely interested in Japanese art and culture. This book gives you great insight into the beauty, mystery, and tradition of the Japanese tattoo. It's a delight to read and a worthy addition for the collection of any Japanophile. —Jake Adelstein,Tokyo Vice This book is chock full of classic themes, characters, and designs, with plenty of notes on the historical significance of tattoo culture. Of course, it's great inspiration for modern tattoos, but also for any other visual art. —Boing Boing Japanese Tattoosis as much a book about the art form as it is about Japanese culture. As it traces the earliest history of getlÓ+