One of the most popular types of tattoos are tattoos representing various types of dragons. Mostly men prefer them, but sometimes women choose. It is believed that such tattoos symbolize strength, courage and independence. They can be of different sizes (although most often the sizes are quite large), colors, as well as the degree of detail.
The content of the article
In this article we will discuss the types of tattoos with dragons and their examples. We will also consider their significance and present to your attention various designs, types of dragons, photos. We hope that you will draw inspiration from this article and find in it ideas that are right for you.
Dragon Tattoo History
Dragons are one of the most legendary creatures in the history of mythology and folklore. They were part of the cultural history of China, Japan, Vietnam and many other countries. In eastern states, dragons were noble beings endowed with power. In the European world, this symbol is usually associated with an evil, dark beast.
Dragon tattoos vary greatly in both symbolic and semantic terms. One civilization may consider them as a symbol of strength and wisdom, while another considers them a symbol of evil and a bad omen. The most popular are Chinese and Japanese dragons, as well as Celtic.
The Chinese dragon represents wisdom, luck and goodwill. At least that is how most ancient Chinese people portrayed the dragon. The Japanese dragon symbolizes harmony in life, the balance of energies "yin" and "yang" in life. Celtic represents power and strength. Such a dragon is often depicted on the throne, with a crown.
In ancient Western culture, the dragon tattoo is a much darker image. The eastern dragon is regarded as a noble beast. He, as a rule, is portrayed as very smart and wise, symbolizes protection. This type of tattoo also symbolizes freedom. After all, a dragon can move to any place where it wants without obstacles. In addition, it means the inner freedom of the soul and life.
The dragon tattoo symbolizes protection, strength and wisdom. It is also used to intimidate and give militancy. Many have heard the story of a knight killing a dragon and seeking the love of a princess. In ancient cultures, the love of women was one of the highest rewards a person could receive. A similar story is reflected in the Christian tradition of St. George, although it has, rather, a religious meaning. Nevertheless, this proves that in ancient times the dragon was a very important symbol in a variety of cultures.
Tattoo Properties
One of the great features of this tattoo is that it can be used in a wide variety of styles, such as the tribal shown in the image below. You can, for example, use the types of dragons in "Skyrim" - a well-known role-playing game in the fantasy genre. This game is now very popular, so your tattoo will also be fashionable.
Of course, everyone has different tastes. As the saying goes, "the taste and color of no comrades." Some prefer dragons to Minecraft, an equally popular game. Others love the classics - images of a Chinese or Japanese dragon. There are many options, everyone can choose the right one for themselves.
The color scheme may also be different. Many dragon tattoos are made with ink and follow the ancient traditions of tattooing. However, today there are more and more examples of tattoos made in color. It doesn’t matter if you choose black ink or a color variant, for example, various types of dragons in Skyrim - any of your imaginations can be realized.
Location
Let's move on to the location of the image. A dragon tattoo can be placed on a wide variety of body areas. Men usually choose the upper arm or forearm for her. Often, the Chinese can see large tattoos in their entire backs.
Similar images usually have a narrower meaning. At one time, members of the mafia wore such tattoos on their backs, as a symbol of the fact that they look down on power and law. Today, this type of tattoo loses its meaning and is not necessarily done by members of the mafia. Women, as a rule, wear a tattoo on their calves, ankle, and neck.
The number 9 is special for the Chinese. This is the largest number, and it is with it that the dragon is associated. The Wall of Nine Dragons is found in many Chinese imperial palaces and gardens. Only the most senior officials have the right to wear 9 dragons on their clothes. Others, less senior, wear 8 or less, depending on rank. This is just one example of how a dragon symbolizes strength and power.
The tattoo below is a great example of a colorful, vibrant image. Notice how many colors are used in it. They are designed to emphasize the beauty of the dragon.
The next tattoo is no less interesting. Here you can see the image of 9 planets. This is a Chinese tattoo. The colors are rich and gorgeous. Above, perhaps, the Sun is depicted. As mentioned earlier, the number 9 is very important in Chinese culture. In this case, 9 planets are depicted, other types of dragons and pictures are possible.
Another tattoo is a good example of a Celtic tattoo. Not the whole dragon is depicted here, but only his eye. The detail of the tattoo is very high, which is typical for Celtic art. Top scales can be shown. The blue and gray colors used in the tattoo look good together and complement each other.
The dragon is an important character in Chinese culture. It represents one half of the yin energies. The second half, "yang," symbolizes the Phoenix.
The types and meaning of dragon tattoos
Oriental dragon is one of the most popular mythological creatures in tattoo art . Their types and styles can be very different. For example, there are ancient types of dragons and there are modern ones. Animals can be winged and wingless, with or without snake attributes, such as scales, and some even have horns. They can be depicted against the sky, clouds, sea. Japanese dragons, as a rule, have a more slender figure and are less often depicted in flight. They usually have 3 claws, and the Chinese have 5. Dragons are believed to have the ability to multiply everything they touch. The pearl, depicted with such a beast, symbolizes the greatest value that exists on earth.
As already noted, the Chinese believe in a perfect balance of yin and yang energies. Chinese tattoos often portray this. Dragons can represent both one and the other energy. The white dragon represents yang, and the red dragon represents yin.
The Japanese dragon, as a rule, is depicted very colorful and symbolic. And not by chance, because he was part of mythology for hundreds of years. For a long time, the dragon personified both good and evil. In general, the Japanese dragon symbolizes balance, freedom, happiness and will, as well as supernatural powers and wisdom.
Many people want to get a dragon tattoo to show that there is harmony in their life. It is believed that balance in all areas is critical to success. Another meaning invested in such tattoos may be the presence of all the life benefits of its owner, as well as freedom, numerous opportunities.
Dragon species
The Chinese dragon is a symbol of power and strength. He is also called to inspire fear in others.
The horned dragon is known as the strongest, most important of the dragons.
The heavenly dragon is the protector of the gods and heavens.
The yellow dragon is a symbol of knowledge.
The dragon guarding the treasures is a symbol of wealth, the protector of precious stones and other treasures of the earth.
The spiritual dragon is the lord of rain and wind.
Water dragon - a resident of the deep sea.
Types of dragons in Japanese culture
Japan is the birthplace of many dragons. The main types of dragons in Japanese culture are the following.
Khan Riu. This dragon is one of the largest, its length is up to 12 meters. It has stripes all over the body.
Kai Riu. This dragon is usually smaller than the rest. Depicted in a beautiful red color.
Sue Riu. King of all dragons.
Ri Riu. Very rare species. Little is known about him. It has surprisingly sharp eyesight.
Hai Riu. Dragon bird. The most common type of dragon, taken from Chinese mythology.
Fuku Riu. The universal favorite, known as a symbol of good luck.
Tattoo colors
The colors of the tattoos also have a symbolic meaning. Dragon species and color are usually interconnected.
Black color symbolizes wisdom, deep roots.
Green is usually associated with small dragons. It also symbolizes life and the Earth.
Blue is more characteristic of the West. It means compassion and forgiveness, sometimes laziness.
Yellow color is associated with the East. Symbolizes egocentrism.
Golden symbolizes such qualities as wisdom, kindness and willingness to help.
Recommendations
Now that you know the meaning and symbolic meaning of the tattoo, as well as the types of dragons, I want to recall how important it is to think carefully about your decision and your choice. Take your time, remember that the tattoo will remain with you until the end of your life. Many of them cannot be removed using a laser or other means. Never make a decision, succumbing to a fleeting impulse!
Be careful when choosing a master, ask him to show his work. For an experienced professional, this should not be a problem. Ask other customers, listen to their reviews. Also consider carefully the location of the tattoo. If you work with people in the office, the employer may need to cover the tattoo.