Chinese Tattoo Art: Traditional & Modern Styles

Hardcover | 26.04 x 3.81 x 30.48 cm | 496 pp

Edition Reuss | 2011 | 9783943105049

Text in English, French, Chinese & German

This is the world's first comprehensive documentation of the art of tattooing in China and Taiwan. Fascinating images exemplify the artful diversity of Chinese tattooing and its common motifs, which are largely inspired by ancient myths and legends. The meanings behind many of these motifs are explored in an illustrated chapter that delves into their symbolism, history and mythology.

Chinese tattoo artists have outstandingly developed their own unique style and expression. Many of the tattooists presented in the book are also gifted draftsmen: their dynamic sketches of dragons, tigers, lotus blossoms, serpents, demons and so much more are inspiring. The Chinese culture favours bright, vibrant, cheerful colours. This is also reflected in the masterful artworks by these tattooists. The preference for particular colours in China gives these creations their own special appeal. But Oriental tattooists are also masters of the 'black and grey' style, which is often used in China, as it is in the West, for sinister visions of horror motifs as well as portraits. 

This is a weighty volume offering a grand overview and profound insight into tattooing in China and Taiwan, enabling professional tattooists around the world to expand their knowledge and spectrums of motifs, and inspiring future tattoos of collectors.