In Asian culture, especially East Asian, the dragon is the most magical creature. According to their mythology, the dragon is a considerable part of historical events and art, emphasizing the image of royalty and legends, which explain why dragon tattoo is extremely popular in these countries. In contrast, to Western civilizations, dragons were linked to evils and dark styles. Why are there such vast differences between the dragon tattoo in many cultures? In this article, we will discuss that.
1. Dragon Tattoo Origin & History
The word “dragon” came from the Latin word “dracones,” which means “one who sees clearly.” The creature itself has a strong connection with Asian and Western mythology, although it has considerable differences in meaning and appearance.
Asian people worshiped dragons as they thought these creatures would bring great fortune, wealth and intelligence. Overall, Asian dragons are more of a mysterious creature that brings magical things to whoever sees it. And due to that, there had been a powerful movement in the development of dragon tattoos in Asian countries. Dragon tattoos can come in many different sizes and designs depending on the era of the emperor you’re talking about. In Japan, during the high time of Yakuza, dragon tattoos were huge, mostly covering part of the limbs to show off strength and power. Meanwhile, in ancient Vietnam, dragon tattoos were inked as protection for fishers from dangerous beasts underwater.
The western dragon looks more like a giant lizard with bat wings. These dragons are said to be living in caves, mountains, and breathing out fire. To most Western mythology, dragons are a dangerous and evil creature, which represents Satan and often been defeated by knights.
This explained why the Asian dragon tattoo is preferable compared to Western ones. It is a graceful, magnificent sacred animal, which also bears a lot of significant meanings.
2. Dragon Tattoo Meaning
A dragon tattoo is the virtue of meaning, and according to many Asians, it brings longevity, power and wisdom. In other folklore, dragon tattoos mean creation and destruction. It also represents masculinity and royalty. People always respect the dragon’s image in Eastern culture since only the empires were allowed to use them. Having a dragon tattoo is the hope of having all the power, strength and majesty of it, and that’s why people are so into dragon tattoos.
3. Dragon tattoo variations
Like we’ve said above, which might be surprising to many of you, dragons have many kinds. For example, the Chinese dragon tattoo is known as the symbol of power and fear, while horn dragons are recognized as the strongest one. In many Western cultures, the Celestial dragon tattoo is the protector of all Gods. Colours are also other features of dragon tattoos; Eastern dragons’ tattoos are often inked in black, red or gold. Which is said, old wisdom, kindness, passion and forgiveness. All of these features combine and create deep layers of meaning for a dragon tattoo.
So if you’re about to have your dragon tattoo, check out their meanings, stories, origins before getting into the session. And we sure that with these magnificent tattoos, you’ll always be proud.
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