Abstract tattoo designs began to flourish in the eighteenth century even though they range as far back in design as 10,000 BC in Japan. These nearly full coverage tattoos known as the "body suits" first originated around 1700 DC as a reaction to the strict laws concerning obvious displays of great wealth.At that time only the most noble were allowed to display and wear fine clothing. The middle class which mostly consisted of general labourers, were forbidden to adorn themselves and wear fine clothes.
As the middle class were denied permission to show any adornment, they used an alternative method and chose tattoos. It is believed the "body suits" were derived from samurai warrior's sleeveless campaign coats. These coats usually displayed heroic designs on the back such as symbols of great bravery and pride. Sometimes even perhaps a guardian or a dragon. Tattoo designs began on the back and continued to extend to the arms, shoulders, thighs and eventually the entire body.
If one tattoos over the entire front of their upper bodies, with the exception of a vertical strip from the chest to the abdomen, this gives the effect or illusion of an unbuttoned vest or "body suit".
The growth of the "body suit" also coincided with the growing popularity of the fictional tattooed heroes. Near the end of the eighteenth and the start of the nineteenth centuries illustrated by the works of fiction was imported from China created both the inspiration and desire for tattoos.
It wasn't until the woodblock prints of the heroes that were illustrated by Utagawa Kuniyoshi were published in the early to mid nineteenth century that it gained huge popularity. These images were highly influential to the world of tattoo designs and still remain in use today.
By Ozzy Soth
