Japanese Tattoo Art - How Has it Evolved Over the Centuries

When it comes to Japanese tattoo art, you either get it or you don't. This is especially true when it comes to Kanji tattoo. Some people see their worth and some people see them as nothing more than characters. If you can appreciate the value of Japanese art and lettering, then you will find plenty of tattoo designs that you really like.

What is the history behind Japanese tattoo art?

This art has been around for several centuries. It's believed that the earliest Japanese settlers had facial tattoos. Throughout the centuries, the art evolved a great deal. it was often customary for the tattooed images to have a lot of details. Intricate details is something that is still present in many designs today. In the early nineteenth century, six very unique and intricate designs were created by Kuniyoshi Utagawa, and they represented the Heroes of Suikoden. They were similar to Robin Hood, and each of the tattoo designs showed a part of their stories.

There were a few centuries during which most people associated tattoos with negativity. Many people believed during those times that only prisoners got tattoos. Obviously, that belief changed somewhat when warriors started getting tattoos. And now, since the rest of the world has become intrigued by Japanese tattoo art, more people from Japan are accepting it as more than just an underground phenomenon. While there is still some negativity towards the art, it is becoming tolerated by more people.

These designs are quite extraordinary when you take a good look at them. Everything from the simplest Kanji character to the huge, sprawling design is fascinating to look at. They contain fine lines, vivid colors, and unique patterns. You need to look at more than just the design itself---you have to look for the meaning.