Throughout the Far East, the dragon tattoo stands as a symbol of protection and strength. Just as American and English cultures have their own unique body art symbols, so does the Eastern part of the world.
Japan, China, Korea and Vietnam all have their own historical legends behind the significance of the dragon. Stories aside, these creatures have become the foundation for some of the most striking and beautiful subjects that a tattoo artist can hope to create.
Even though dragon tattoo designs originated in Eastern culture, it has become increasingly popular to integrate dragon themes into other popular skin designs. Dragons wrapped around everything from Celtic crosses to intricate flower designs; each one making the unique statement that the artist is seeking.
A dragon tattoo, when done by a skilled artist, can be a dynamic piece of art. The ability of the body art artist to incorporate the dragon’s natural features into the subject’s own body can create a design that looks like it is alive.
Arms become tails and shoulders become dragon haunches. With a creative artist, the possibilities are endless. If you are adamant about having a unique tattoo, then consider a dragon skin design. Your own body is unique; therefore, your design will be unique. As a common figure in fantasy literature and games, the dragon has gained an increase in popularity among people who might not ordinarily even get tattoos. Dragons representing medieval characteristics of loyalty and wisdom have stolen the hearts of many folks who are outside the traditional body art demographic.
These stories have removed the evil connotations from the form of the dragon and tattoo flash books reflect this trend. Dragons are often portrayed as majestic and revered creatures than evil man-eating beasts that permeate fairy tales.
In traditional Japanese tattoos, the reverence which people give the dragon can be seen in tattoos that depict the dragon holding onto the pearl of wisdom. This is a popular motif, and is just one more element of the dragon’s lore within this rich culture.
King George V is the first westerner believed to have gotten a dragon tattoo. As a sailor in the British navy, the young George ventured to Japan and came back with an original dragon skin design by the traditional Japanese artist Hori Chyo. When George returned to England and later became King, the interest in Eastern tattooing became popular.
It can be difficult to make a final decision when you are ready to choose your tattoo. If you are open to anything, but have yet to decide, make sure that you at least look at a body art flash of the possibilities that exist with a dragon tattoo. The dragon is a wonderful medium that allows the artist to create something unique.
