Yar Suk (Tattoo Ink Magic/Medicine)

The character depicted here is a Bilus. The Bilus are ancient ogres or demons. In literature, the Bilus are described as having shapeshifting powers—an ability to take on different physical appearances. There are 24 different classical demon forms, each with its own name and role in stories and plays.

18th-19th Century

"Yar Suk" figures are made of potent herbs and medicines and then blessed bestowing powerful magic upon the Amulet. The Tattooer would carve a small amount of "medicine" from the bottom of the "Yar Suk" and mix it with the tattoo ink which would pass on the power of the Amulet to the person receiving the tattoo.