Bushido: Legacies of the Japanese Tattoo Value Guide

Published in 2001, Bushido: Legacies of the Japanese Tattoo is a seminal work by Takahiro and Katie M. Kitamura that documents the intricate world of Irezumi. It is highly collectible for its extensive photography and deep exploration of the 'way of the warrior' through traditional and contemporary skin art.

What Is Bushido: Legacies of the Japanese Tattoo Worth?

The typical price range for Bushido: Legacies of the Japanese Tattoo is $40 - $60 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the book, specifically looking for a crisp spine and lack of foxing on the paper.
• The presence of a clean, unclipped dust jacket if the edition was issued with one.
• Market demand for Irezumi reference materials, which often fluctuates based on interest in Japanese subcultures.
• Provenance or signatures, as copies signed by the authors or featured tattoo artists can command higher prices.

How to Identify Bushido: Legacies of the Japanese Tattoo?

• Verify the authors are listed as Takahiro Kitamura (Horitaka) and Katie M. Kitamura.
• Check for the original 2001 publication date to ensure it is a first edition or early printing.
• Confirm the presence of high-quality, full-color photography showcasing both historical and modern Japanese tattoo designs.
• Look for the publisher's mark, typically Schiffer Publishing, to ensure authenticity.

History of Bushido: Legacies of the Japanese Tattoo

Japanese tattooing, or Irezumi, has a long and complex history, dating back thousands of years. Originally used for spiritual and decorative purposes, it later became associated with firemen and laborers, and eventually with the yakuza. This book explores these traditions and the modern resurgence of Japanese tattoo artistry, highlighting the intricate designs and cultural significance that define Bushido, the 'way of the warrior'.