The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
The art of tattooing has a long and rich history in Japan. Today, tatoos often remain stigmatised, associated with criminality and nonconformity. There is a historical reason for this, however: during the Edo period (1603-1868), criminals were brandished with tattoos in order to identify and punish them. Despite the fact that this practice was banned during the Meiji period, the stigma remains.
Three Strikes
The tattoos of the Edo period were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo. This practice, irezumi kei, or tattoo penalty, replaced the more bloodthirsty decapitations and removal of limbs that preceded it. However, head tattoos also operated on a three strikes system, each crime punished with a single stroke of a Chinese symbol (大), after which was death. Each region had its own symbol representing both crime and location, rendering it possible to immediately identify the details of the act committed. In Hiroshima people were tattooed with dogs; Chikuzen, lines; Takayama, dots; and Hizen, crosses.
While today’s perceptions of tattooing in Japan might be rooted in this 5000-year history, contemporary organised crime groups such as the yakuza continue the practice of tattooing, perpetuating its association with criminality. This has even led to misconceptions that tattoos in Japan are illegal; however, the law forbidding tattoos was abolished in 1872.
TRENDING
-
The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
-
The Art of Haruki Nakamura's Paper Toys
This artist draws inspiration from origami to create figurines that unfold or come to life when they are thrown or touched.
-
Shizuka Yokomizo, between Exhibitionism and Surveillance
'Dear Stranger' is the story of a troubling relationship between the photographer and the subject, who meet without seeing each other.
-
The Trendiest ‘Sento’ and Saunas in Tokyo
The bath culture remains vibrant in the capital city, where public baths and saunas designed by renowned architects are continuously opening.
-
Japanese Correspondence Explored in 'Tsubaki Stationery Store'
Ito Ogawa gently narrates the everyday life of Hatoko, who returns to Kamakura to take over the family stationery shop and become a scribe.