Tattoos in China have been around since before the Dynasties. The Dulong minority from Yunan Provence have had facial tattoos for generations, these were traditionally worn for them to be recognised in this life and the after life. Although this tradition is almost extinct, it exemplifies China's historical participation in tattooing culture. China has been off the world stage for a long time, in the modern era, but with it's staggering growth and unparalleled opening to the outside world, this ancient society has taken back some of it's former glory. China's modern tattoo industry still strives to link modern technique with ancient subject matter. And Shanghai Tattoo is no exception.
Chinese and Japanese Style tattoos are distinct in one very obvious way, Japanese tattoos create a border with solid black 'wind lines' and Chinese tattoos create borders using wind, earth, fire or water. Boh styles share flat colors and intricate designs. Check out some of the great koi, dragon, phoenix, lotus, peony, cherry blossom, landscape, hero, villain and, Ting's speciality, traditional Chinese watercolor style tattoos below.
