Motif
Sea life tattoos in Japan
Sea tattoos encompass designs depicting marine-related subjects such as waves, anchors, sailing ships, compasses, mermaids, and creatures like octopuses, whales, dolphins, and turtles. Anchors, sailing ships, and compasses are known to originate from sailor tattoos and are sometimes rendered in old school style. In Japanese traditional (wabori), waves are often used as a background.
848 works on tattooers.jp
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Artists with the most sea life work
- HoriakiShizuoka · 46 works
- Manabu ShinshuNagano · 38 works
- HorineKanagawa · 27 works
- kazzSaitama · 25 works
- YABESIANTokyo · 24 works
- OPALTokyo · 22 works
- ToM【DRAGON HEART TATTOO】Kanagawa · 20 works
- SATOSHI18 works
Questions
What is the origin of anchor and sailing ship tattoos?
Anchors, sailing ships, compasses, and swallows are known to originate from tattoos worn by sailors, and are sometimes said to represent safe voyages or a place to return to. There are various interpretations.
What styles are sea tattoos done in?
Anchors, sailing ships, and compasses are often seen in old school style, while waves are depicted as backgrounds in Japanese traditional (wabori). Sea landscapes and creatures can also be found in fine line or realistic styles, drawn with lines only.
What should I communicate when requesting waves or a sea landscape?
Communicating whether you prefer calm or rough waves, if you want a horizon or a ship included, or if it's a standalone piece or a background, will help the consultation process. The way lines are drawn differs significantly between Japanese traditional (wabori) waves and Western-style waves, so showing examples close to your desired image will facilitate communication. Visiting Japan? Send us your idea and dates through our booking form, and we'll match you with an artist whose work fits.