[Featuring Tattoos By: Mike Rubendall, Chris O’Donnell, Grez, Matt Adamson, Mike Brummett, Ian Hansen, Lina Hsiao and Will Lollie]
The hannya mask has historically been an extremely popular Japanese tattoo design, and there is good reason why it looks so demonic. The hannya (般若 han-nya) originates from stories told in traditional Japanese theater and is perhaps the most recognizable mask in Noh, a style of traditional Japanese theater comprised of music and dancing. It can also be seen being used in other styles of traditional Japanese theater such as Kyōgen and Kagura. The hannya mask represents souls of women who have become demons, full of anger and sadness as a result of jealousy.
Hannya mask enamel pins designed by Will Lollie available at our official merch store Kings Avenue Collective.
Want to see more hannya mask tattoos? Watch our first hannya tattoo video.
