Great piece of art. The artist seems to be very experienced. By looking at his work it seems that he has been doing this for years.
Generally speaking, for the tattoo of that size, it would take up to 5-6 tattoo parlor visits. The one you showed above will cost you anywhere from $1000 to $3000 depending on the artist. Lot of people chicken out since the wide spread rumors suggest that it hurts. Yes it does hurt. You are actually making wound and injecting color in the skin and letting it heal to start over the same spot again.
Body art is a very old culture. Get hold of your grandmother ask her if
she has one? I bet she would. My dad's grandma has few and so does my
dad's mom. It's in my family. But some how I've not had the time to get
one despite the fact that I'm good friend with an artist.
The only thing that would bother you is what to get? considering the fact that you are willing to spend time and money both. It's a piece of art that you will carry for the rest of your life so it better be something that you are proud of.
Boy enough of my ranting. Peace out.