Eastern Dragon Tattoos VS. Western Dragon Tattoos.

Dragon Full back piece

Dragon Full back piece

As far as mythological creatures go, dragons are an all time favorite.They are one of the most legendary creatures in the history of mythology and folklore.  As children we often hear various legends from our elders. We sit there fascinated and eager to learn more about these fire-breathing, winged creatures.

The two most common type of dragon tattoos we see are Eastern and Western styles. Knowing the difference in style, description and representation is very important when looking for a dragon tattoo. Western dragons are visualized as a bad omen,or maniacal, evil creatures that breathe fire, burn down villages and destroy just about anything it comes into contact with.  The Eastern dragons are seen as protectors of life, and good fortune. They are noble creatures with distinct honors and powers, and considered to be very intelligent.

Progress of a full back piece

Progress of a full back piece

Dragons are a popular tattoos to both men and woman, each person finding a different, and perhaps personal reason and symbolism behind the dragon. For females, a dragon tattoo usually symbolizes strength, and protection,and wisdom,  where as a males dragon tattoo would more likely represent courage and power and ferociousness. Men favor tattoo placement on their back, upper arm, shoulder blade or leg, while females will typically choose the nape of the neck, side/ribs or foot.

black and grey dragon tattoo with wings

black and grey dragon tattoo with wings

Dragons can be tattooed in a variety of different styles, ranging from tribal dragons to traditional dragons or even realistic dragons. The colors in the dragon also have meanings. Certain colors represent the attributes of each dragon. Black- This color means that the parents are old and wise. Green is usually associated with smaller dragons. It also represents life and Earth. Blue is represents compassion and forgiveness. Yellow is suggestive of being self-centered and mean. Gold represents one that has great attributes, such as wisdom, kindness, and helpfulness.

Completed black and grey  dragon back piece

Completed black and grey dragon back piece

The decision to get a dragon tattoo makes a particularly powerful personal statement, rich with diversity for the individual who chooses it as a form of self-expression. No matter black or white, traditional or realistic, Eastern or Western, the tattooed image of a dragon will likely never lose appeal.

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