Koi tattoo design | Mexican Tattoo Design

Koi tattoo design | Mexican Tattoo Design

Probably surprising to many westerners is the large of amount of ancient myth that surrounds these beautiful fish in the Orient and their elevated status there. Generally known here as the brightly colored fish that are common in public ponds and fountains, carp (koi is Japanese for carp) can be found in colors that include white, yellow, gold, a deep orange, and some are even calico-colored. Particularly beautiful specimens have been known to fetch prices in excess of half-a-million dollars from private collectors who specialize in their breeding and showing. However, the koi is more than just a colorful and collectible fish. It is also one of the most popular and beautiful of Japanese tattoo symbols – a beauty which belies its symbolic meaning. Although Chinese in origin, the carp is now widely celebrated in Japan, particularly for its manly qualities. It is said to climb waterfalls bravely, and, if caught, it lies upon the cutting board awaiting the knife without a quiver, not unlike a samurai (warrior) facing a sword. This theme dates back to ancient China, where a legend tells of how any koi that succeeded in climbing the falls at a point called Dragon Gate (on the Yellow River) would be transformed into a dragon. Based on that legend, it became a symbol of worldly aspiration and advancement. Eventually, the stoic fish came to be associated with so many masculine and positive qualities that it was appropriated for the annual Boys' Day Festival in Japan where even today colorful, streaming koi flags are traditionally displayed for each son in the family. In tattoo imagery, especially in combination with flowing water, it symbolizes much the same: courage, the ability to attain high goals, and overcoming life's difficulties.

Peacock Tattoo Designs | Mexican Tattoo Design

Peacock Tattoo Designs | Mexican Tattoo Design

There are many different versions of a peacock tattoo that can be found on bodies all over. A peacock tattoo can symbolize something different to each person, but the underlying message is always the same one of pride and beauty.

Peacocks are a beautiful and captivating bird. Their feathers have long been cherished and admired for the beautiful and striking colors. When peacocks shed their feathers they grow back even brighter and more beautiful, thus sustaining the power of the peacock image. This is part of the reason people are drawn to a peacock tattoo.

People want a peacock tattoo because they look good. The flurry of bright and brilliant color is attention getting. Peacocks have come to hold meaning as a symbol of accepting one’s own beauty. They are also a sign of authority and a regal manner. People who get a peacock tattoo are likely self-assured and proud. The peacock also holds religious meaning. It is an early Christian symbol for the resurrection of Christ.

There are variations of a peacock tattoo. There can be many different colors used and the tattoo can be of a whole peacock or just a peacock feather. Sometimes people use peacock feathers to adorn other tattoos, as well. The male peacock is the image used since females do not have the showy, bright colored feathers. Peacock tattoos can be put just about anywhere on the body, too. They are a great versatile image that lends itself to be able to be adjusted to fit the desires of the person.

Peacock tattoos are a common request. The proud and beautiful peacock is something to be admired, to be cherished. People who want a tattoo that expresses their love of life and show the world that they are proud and happy to be themselves may choose to get a peacock tattoo.

Argento Tattoo | Mexican Tattoo Design

Argento Tattoo | Mexican Tattoo Design

Now that is one freaky angel tattoo. Asia definitely has some of the coolest set of tattoos I’ve ever seen.