
Eternal Koi |
Irezumi,
the art of decorative Japanese tattoo, was
a product of the Edo period. Its growth ran parallel with the popularity of
Ukiyo-e woodblock printing and Kabuki theater, each art form drawing
inspiration from the other two. Decorative tattooing began as an expression
of love. Periodically outlawed over the centuries, it finally gained
legitimate acceptance with the American occupation following the end of
World War II. Today, it is a highly respected art form throughout the world. |

Dragon Mystique |