Attributed to Thomas Berg, c1920’s, this piece has been through the ringer. Chopped out section poses an interesting story: Piece taken home by a famous person to test out, contained Japanese imagery unpopular in WWII , or perhaps a bully just wanted a chop?
We will never know but in the words of Jim Laporte famous tattooist from the NuPike:
“The piece, as it is, speaks to me of tiny, dark, hole in the wall shops.
Hidden in skid row areas where sailors come to seek that which is found in those places.
Cheap booze, female companionship for a fleeting moment and a lasting memento of that respite, a tattoo.
Always, your pal, Jim Laporte”