Tamatorihime is character from Japanese mythology. Whilst working as a pearl diver she met and married the son of the powerful Fujiwara clans founder who was on a mission to reclaim a treasure ball stolen by the dragon king. Lulling the dragon to sleep with music Tamatorihime was able to rescue the treasure ball. Pursued by the dragon and other grotesque sea-creatures she cut open her breast to hide the treasure inside. Blood filled the water, clouding their vision and she escaped. She died from the wound and is revered for her sacrifice. This piece of artwork depicts Tamatorihime fleeing from the dragon, treasure ball and knife in hand. Ichi Hatano is a Japanese artist. He has worked as a tattoo artist since 1998 and also produces Suiboku-ga and digital artworks.
