JAPANESE TATTOO MEANING #5
YOUSHIKI-BI
Literal tlansration of Youshiki-bi is the magnificent form.
Traditional Japanese tattoos depict a certain world or worldview on the entire body.
Therefore, traditional Japanese tattoos have some restrictions and minimum rules.
It is essential to have the correct combination of patterns, backgrounds and correct arrangement according to each story.
For example, basically Fudo Myoo sits on the rock so it must be rocks around his feet/lower back. It must not the clouds and winds because Fudo doesn’t flies.
If you deviate from it, the design will no longer be a traditional Japanese tattoo.
There are pairings for the left and right. This is also expressed vertically.
Basically, elements are arranged from the bottom to top; the river, the ground, the sky, and the heavens.
Because of these restrictions, the traditional Japanese tattoo has a sense of unity.
And all the designs are intricately related to each other, complement each other, and add depth to the work.
There are many anecdotes and stories depending on the design. So the combinations are diverse and showcase the tattooer’s skills.