Tattoo design
My client requested the design of a tattoo illustration representing a samurai-type warrior with koi. The intended placement of the tattoo was to be on the outer side of the thigh, requiring the design to be of a large size.
Research into samurai warriors led to the fascinating accounts of one of 12th Century Japan's rare women warriors, the legendary Tomoe Gozen. Renowned for her beauty, physical strength and martial skills, Tomoe's weapons of choice were the long sword and bow and arrow. A formidable force with her skills as an archer and courage as a warrior, Tomoe Gozen has become a symbolic figure of female independence and achievement in Japan.
The perfect inspiration for such a prominent tattoo. Historical images and cultural representations provided a collection of details to aid in my illustration of this incredible woman.
