Koi Fish

A koi curving against the current, fins fanned, scales laid in overlapping rows of fine line work. In Japanese tradition the upstream koi stands for perseverance rewarded, the fish that becomes a dragon at the top of the falls.

Size & Placement

The 4.3 x 7 inch vertical flow suits the forearm, ribs, or calf, letting the fish swim with the body's line. Orient the koi swimming upward; tradition says direction matters, and upstream is the whole point.

Semi-Permanent Ink, No Needles

Semi-permanent ink reaches full tone within 24 hours and holds for up to 10 days before fading downstream. No needles involved.