Tattooing - the art of body painting, which is constantly evolving and growing, as the number of directions and techniques of execution is increasing, so that everyone can choose the best solution to make their body more attractive and sexy, expressing their originality. Today the images that are made in a realistic manner, able to surprise with their verisimilitude, are popular. Recently, a very popular image has become the samurai tattoo, which we will talk about.
The samurai is a noble Japanese warrior of honor who is a revered and respected character. The fundamental concepts for the samurai are loyalty and faithfulness, the ability to serve their patron. In this case, the tattoo with the image of a samurai has and alternative interpretations of which you should know before you make a tattoo on your body.
The general meaning of the tattoo samurai
- Bravery - courage - spiritual and physical strength - readiness for self-sacrifice - elevated moral qualities - wisdom of a mature, adult
Such drawings can be either black and white or in color. In any case, they look solid. Most often, the samurai tattoo is applied in such colors:
- black;
- red;
- yellow;
- blue;
- and their shades.
On what part of the body? It all depends on a person's personal preferences and wishes. As well as the size of the picture. Most often such pictures are found on:
- shoulders;
- chest;
- back.
But in any case, it will take more than one session to get a tattoo. To apply a beautiful drawing with a lot of details the master will have to work long enough. So if you decide to decorate your body with a samurai tattoo, be prepared for the fact that it will have to spend a lot of time.
When talking about what the meaning of the tattoo samurai, it is impossible not to remember the code of honor of these people. This will allow you to better understand the semantic load of the image and realize whether it really suits you. After all, it is possible that the life principles of the Japanese may be contrary to your worldview.
The word means "servant" in Japanese. That is, the samurai not only served, but were loyal to death to their lord. Also, the word "honor" was not an empty word to them. They strictly adhered to certain rules and regulations and never violated them.
Compositions with other elements
As part of a full color and monochrome design, we found that samurai tattoos can be accompanied by a cherry blossom. A very distinctive flower of these tattoos. In addition to representing beauty, they also bring ephemera and fragility. Consequently, they represent the union of a warrior's strength and something that can be used in battle. The combination of both makes you think about how short life is.
Tattoo Samurai Sketches
Samurai tattoos on different parts of the body
If you want original samurai tattoo sketches, you can see them in this article. As well as examples of real works. Although, as a reminder, you should not just copy someone else's sketches. It's a bad tone. You can use them as examples for inspiration and then, after showing them to your chosen master, ask him to draw a unique sketch. Appropriate to your taste and life tastes.
Tattoo of a samurai on your back
Let's talk about what a samurai tattoo on the back can mean. More often than not, such drawings are large, enormous. They can cover the entire surface of the back. It is best if they are bright, colorful, applied using several colors.
Although there are also small images. But they are stubbed on the shoulder blade. Or on the waist. Then it is a neat, beautiful drawing.
Pay attention!
The process of tattooing on the back will take a long time. Especially if you need to "score" the entire back. In such a situation, it will take up to 15 hours. Since the duration of the session rarely exceeds 2 hours, you will need to come to the master at least 7 times.
The Samurai tattoo meaning on the back is the same as on other parts of the body. There will be no special new meaning in this image.
Tattoo samurai on the forearm, shoulder and arm
If tattoo samurai on the shoulder or forearm, then you have a real opportunity in the image of a Japanese warrior to portray a real personality. In this case your tattoo will be original and attractive. The main thing is that the sketch was designed by a really professional with a capital letter, who is able to draw beautifully, to create vivid images.
When a tattoo on the forearm samurai - you emphasize your appreciation of Japanese philosophy. In addition, the image will point to the same principles as when depicting a Japanese warrior on other parts of the body. That is, it refers to the following:
- The desire to take responsibility in any situation;
- protection of family and friends from any problems and adversity;
- the heightened moral qualities;
- The wisdom of a mature adult, adequately assessing any situation.
But the tattoo samurai on the hand of a European shows that he is close to the Japanese tradition, both historically and culturally. Quite often the hand is covered with an image in the "sleeve" style, on which the samurai is drawn.
Popular places of application
We're not the kind of people who can pinpoint the exact best spot for you, but it's true that there's always a preference. Although you have the last word, we can tell you that the Samurai tattoo needs space, such as the back. We know it's not about anything simple and that's why, many people prefer to opt out of these warrior designs.
If the back doesn't convince you, the arms and legs are also perfect for showing off these ideas. Remember, they are perfect, but no doubt every inch of your skin will be covered with these types of designs. There are several designs that can be attributed to the chest part. Without a doubt, this is a great option for men.
Perhaps girls prefer the arms or legs more. But as we say, it is always a matter of taste. If you like samurai tattoos, you've probably already wondered where you're going to wear them.
Tattoo Samurai meaning in men and women
Now let's talk about what tattoo samurai means. Including, we will not just describe the general meaning of the nail pattern, but also consider how its interpretation changes on the bodies of men and the fairer half of humanity.
Let's start with the fact that tattoo samurai photos of which are presented in this article, choose people with the following characteristics:
- bold;
- courageous;
- Strong not only physically, but also spiritually;
- Faithful to certain ideals and principles;
- Ready for self-sacrifice.
Pay attention!
By choosing to decorate his body with such a sketch, a person also indicates that he accepts the philosophy of Japan and its inhabitants. This includes respect for others, especially for the elderly.
Note that the samurai were often short in stature. This is the specificity of the Japanese organism - it is rare to find even people of average height here. However, despite their small stature, warriors could always find a way out of any situation. And they were ready to fight to the death! They strove to defend justice, the truth and honor. In this case - not always with the use of physical force.
Therefore if to speak about what means tattoo samurai, it is necessary to notice and that fact that the Japanese warriors constantly aspired to development, mastered new methods of struggle, never betrayed the principles and did not oppose them to the conscience.
Therefore, choosing for the body such a drawing as a tattoo samurai sketches which are presented on this page, you need to understand what responsibility is entrusted to you. And, above all, from a moral point of view.
Pay attention!
Samurai mask is one of the amulets. It is important that on the mask were clearly visible outlines Mengu - a Japanese demon. Such a mask is protection not only from spirits, but also from living foes.
If a Japanese warrior wearing a helmet is depicted on the body, it indicates a commitment to tradition and the reliability of protection. In addition, it should be remembered that helmets, just as served as the basis, prototypes of the current body armor.
Tattoo samurai with a sword can often be seen on the bodies of athletes. Most often, such a picture prefer to apply to the body of fencers.
Pay attention!
Members of the Japanese Yakuza mafia also like to paint the image of the ancient warrior on their bodies. Thus, they indicate their independence. And also want to emphasize the fact that they are not going to obey the authorities and the law.
History of the origin of samurai tattoos
The samurai, also called Bushi, was an elite warrior of ancient Japan whose purpose was to protect noble nobles. They fought injustice and had some important privileges. While other warriors were allowed to carry only one weapon, samurai were allowed to have two special swords: a long (katana) and a short (wakizashi).
Throughout their lives, samurai followed an unwritten code of honor called Bushido ("The Way of the Warrior"). The seven virtues or principles of the Bushido Code were justice, courage, kindness, courtesy, honesty, honor and loyalty. Today there are still certain martial arts based on these rules.
These courageous warriors play an important role in Japanese culture, so it is not surprising that they are among the most popular motifs in Japanese body art. Japanese tattoos often depict them fighting giant animals such as fish, octopuses and dragons, symbolizing their fearlessness. Because warriors are also associated with death, they are often depicted in conjunction with skulls.
A person who has put the symbol of a samurai on his body is distinguished by strength, courage, discipline, honor and fearlessness.
In Japan, tattoos are applied using a special technique called Irezumi. It is a traditional Japanese technique in which the image is applied using a bamboo tool with metal needles. This method is more painful, takes a long time and is not recommended for people with a low pain threshold.
Meaning in men
For members of the stronger half of mankind, this drawing indicates the following characteristics:
- The desire to take responsibility;
- protection of their relatives and friends;
- increased moral qualities;
- The wisdom of a mature, adult person.
Note that tattoo samurai meaning for men can also be as follows - loyalty, generosity in all manifestations and in all spheres of life, passion for their cause and life in general.
It is noteworthy that it is relatively common for bodies to have not just a drawing of a samurai, but of a particular character. Such is Date Masamune. This is a real person who lived in the 17th century. He was very strong, even violent. In one of the battles he lost his eye, but that did not stop him from being one of the best warriors in Japanese history.
Meaning in girls and women
Representatives of the weaker half of humanity also like to put similar drawings on the body. On the body of the representative of the weaker half of humanity such a tattoo means:
- Independence;
- Wisdom and an appropriate mindset;
- Certain masculine qualities in character.
Women, who choose the appropriate decoration, always achieve their goal, whatever it may be, are persistent in their aspirations, they have an analytical, but fairly sharp mind. And also they have a quick response to any situation in life.
Pay attention!
Although quite often girls put a samurai on their body just because they like Japan and its culture, they may not be too familiar with the warriors of this eastern country.
You should not think that the samurai is not an appropriate tattoo for girls. Suffice it to recall that not so long ago there were extensive studies in Japan. During them were studied the DNA of the dead soldiers buried after a large-scale battle that took place in 1580. It was found that almost a third of the warriors - were women. Which indicates - not only men fought in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Women samurai had their own "name." They were called onna-bugeisya. They had practically the same rights as the men. Naturally, with certain exceptions. In addition, they could fight alongside men and were in no way inferior to the representatives of the stronger half of mankind in such characteristics as:
- courage;
- dexterity;
- courage.
Considering the above, we can draw a simple conclusion - the tattoo of a samurai on a woman's body can symbolize the process of emancipation. At least in the countries of Europe and North America. After all, in Japan, men and women were actually fully equalized in rights back in the 13th century. That is, almost 800 years ago. "Progressive" Europe took much longer to get to this point.
Peculiarities
Despite the fact that the meaning of the samurai tattoo is intricate and diverse, as well as the whole philosophy of life of the Japanese warrior, a brief formulation of the essence will look like this: Devotion to family and life ideals Other features of this tattoo should include: the location (the tattoo should be stabbed on the back or stomach area). In Japan itself to wear the image of a samurai on his body have the right only selected, the most significant members of the group "Yakuza".
Another feature that the samurai tattoo has is the high performance complexity, which requires the master to have maximum professional qualification. The rich abundance of colors and shades, the emotion of the warrior and the clear detailing of the armor performed by the master in his work make this tattoo one of the most complex. The understated beauty and austerity, deep meaning and philosophical power relate this tattoo to the category of men.
In this category it is often chosen as a symbolism, in one way or another, related to the Samurai. Doing on the body tattoo samurai for fun or for the sake of fashion and aesthetic appeal is not worth it. This Tattoo for the men, strong in body and spirit..
The technique of execution of tattoo samurai
Quite interesting look such naked pictures, made in the not losing its popularity style thrash-polka. Yes, the tattoo turns out relatively dark, but it still strikes the imagination. This variant of application is chosen by people who wish to emphasize their strength, endurance, courage.
By the way!
To give your image a certain militancy, it is recommended to apply a tattoo on the leg or forearm in black, supplementing it with red "blood" strokes.
A good option is to complement the image with hieroglyphs. Just do not forget to check what they mean, so as not to be embarrassed.
The style of realism is worth choosing if you want, as closely as possible to convey facial expressions, emotions warrior - to achieve this you can only if the detailed tracing of all facial features, every wrinkle.
If you want to get an original black and white image of a samurai, ask the master to apply it in the Dotwork style. This technique is quite complicated and not all specialists can work in it, but if you got a real professional, you can be sure that you will get a quality drawing.
What is a katana?
The katana spread in Japan during the fourteenth to sixteenth centuries as a result of a change in the concept and tactics of using edged weapons in combat. Powerful heavy swords, now used more in foot combat, were replaced by lightweight, shorter swords that allowed the warrior, by showing agility, to strike before his opponent. Thanks to its characteristic curvature, the katana seemed to continue the slightly curved arm of the samurai, endowing it with strength.
Katana tattoo and yin-yang, photo by: https://www.instagram.com/p/CNUpdhLFAft/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Its blade was forged from two types of steel. The cutting part was of hard steel and the base was of soft steel, the combination of which enabled the blade to retain its toughness and sharpness for a long time. The hilt, covered in shark or stingray skin, was wrapped in a ribbon of silk. On the cutting part of a good katana you can see a jamon - a line appearing as a result of zonal hardening of the sword.
The garde was decorated with a special pattern. Some combat techniques provide for the simultaneous use of a katana its smaller version - wakizashi (usually a blacksmith forged these two swords for the samurai in a set).
