Dragon Tattoo Designs

Dragon tattoo designs are synonymous with many cultures around the world. The two most recognized interpretations of dragons are the European Dragon and Oriental Dragon. Chinese dragons are fabled creatures in Chinese folklore and have mythical counterparts among Korean, Vietnamese and Japanese dragons.

The Japanese culture in particular has had a very long and rich history of tattooing. This combined with the fact that dragons are one of the most important of all mythological beasts in Japanese culture makes them traditional tattoo design subjects. You can see from the impressiveness and strength of these creatures why they have been historical tattoo images within the culture.

Japanese dragons are typically large, wingless, serpentine creatures with clawed feet. They are traditionally associated with rainfall or large bodies of water and were important within society because “water”, the sea and rivers were a major part of the way of life. Oriental dragons are revered in Asian societies and represent honor and virtue.

In contrast to the oriental dragon its european counterpart is viewed some what differently. Here historically dragons are viewed as evil creatures that go around attacking communities killing people and destroying villages. Typically european dragons have the ability to fly and breathe fire. Legendary stories are told of knights slaying dragons to save the people from this evil creature.

European dragons are depicted as unpleasant and more reptilelike in appearance . They have a large wicked looking face with a mouth full of razor sharp teeth. They are covered in scales and are normally but not always portrayed with wings.

Although they are seen as evil they have this certain mystique about them and through the ages tales and legends have been recited about them. This allure has sparked a desire to have these evil if not deadly creatures as a tattoo for many. There is something about a dragon, wings outstretched in full flight that people have a fascination with. European dragons are seem to represent strength and power.

There are many types and styles of dragon tattoo designs that you can have inked on your body. Whether it is a traditional oriental or european design it all depends on your personal style. All designs can be personalized to make them unique, a popular style is the tribal dragon tattoo. This style can really produce a striking design which looks stunning in black against your skin. The use of traditional dragon images can also produce extraordinary tattoos of amazing color.