Exploring the history of Yakuza tattoos can provide an insight into an organization that turned from shame to pride. The tattoos are full body shields that have very detailed designs that include subtle, yet striking colors and tones. The history of this practice is thought to originate around the time of the Shoguns in Japan. Though the meaning has changed over time, they still have a powerful message.
The original ink designs were given to criminals to designate their status. This was meant to be a mark of shame provided to them. The more crimes committed, the more they were marked. Most often, they would begin as an armband. Additional bands were added when they were convicted of future crimes.
In the seventeenth century the first known marks were thought to appear. The crimes of the marked were often petty crimes that were often simple theft. The original people that were given these markings were thought to be ronin, or unemployed samurai that did not have a master to serve any longer.
They were like Robin Hood. In the sense that they often would steel from the rich, the ronin and others were known for being compassionate towards the weaker villagers. Since they had no one to follow, they were often involved in smaller mischief. Unfortunately, the criminals were very skilled at what they did, but had no leader or person to protect.
Organized crime was a natural progression for these highly skilled groups. A boss or leader would emerge or be selected and the rest of the group would follow them to death. Yakuza became the name of the group. These tattoos are a symbol of loyalty to the boss. Even family members will obtain the drawings as a show of loyalty.
The markings are now a symbol of pride instead of shame as intended. The ink is applied by being tapped into the skin with a needle attached to a wooden handle. The skill takes years to accomplish and often cannot be duplicated with modern equipment. It is very painful and can cost over $100,000 to be created over two years. The hands and face are often the only area that is not covered in the ink drawings.
The history of Yakuza tattoos completes the beauty of the drawings themselves. Understanding the loyalty they represent helps to appreciate the natural evolution they have had. There are between 80,000 and 100,000 members of this organization at any time. Though they have their beginnings in the 17th century, they still exist today.
Yakuza tattoos represent the ultimate in full-color body art. The tradition of Japanese tattoos goes back into early history of the culture.. Free reprint available from: Discovering the History of Yakuza Tattoos.
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