Koi and waves tattoo
An original japanese (irezumi) design of a Japanese koi fish swimming upward through waves. See it on your own skin through the camera before you book, free in TattooLab.
What a koi and waves tattoo means
In Japanese tradition a koi swimming upstream through waves stands for perseverance and strength in hard times; legend says the koi that climbs the waterfall becomes a dragon.
Placement and size
It works best on the back, where there is room for a large, detailed piece.
Style and how it ages
Japanese irezumi uses bold outlines, rich colour and backgrounds like waves and wind bars, usually at a large scale. Large size and strong outlines help irezumi age gracefully; colours may need a refresh after 10 to 15 years.