What single exceptional trait do settings in feudal Japan, colonized space, and ancient ruins share? Lean, muscular and incredibly dangerous women, if Tazio Bettin is to be believed. He presents an enticing and beautifully-formed argument, through the power of his sensual works of character art.

These lethal ladies are at once serene and passionate in their pursuits, which usually involve a blade, or the occasional sidearm. Many appear human, but others are clearly not of our world. None of these trivialities, however, diminish the beauty of Mr. Bettin’s powerful subjects.

A final word of warning: a few of these alternative illuminations of past, present, and future are as bloody as they are seductive. But isn’t that the way of the world?

When last we looked, Mr. Bettin’s website was empty. Feel free to visit an alternate gallery here.