Types of Chinese Tattoo: popular Chinese symbols: Dragon tattoo,
Tiger Tattoo
No doubt tattoos are fashionable, and this is one reason why it is
very popular today. It is not only sported for fashion because it is a
way to express oneself through the symbolism it holds. And nothing
compares to the symbolism that a Chinese tattoo has.
The Chinese society has embraced the tattoo culture as part of their
history. Thus, it is not a wonder why several Chinese characters and
symbols are being used at present as tattoos. The variation as well as
the simplicity of a Chinese character or symbol is what make a Chinese
tattoo different. As proof of this, even a small Chinese tattoo can
express a strong emotion.
 In China, a tattoo is called ‘Ci Shen’ or ‘Wen Shen’ depending on the
dialect being used. Similarly, the two phrases mean ‘puncture in the
body’ when translated to English. A Chinese tattoo is popular mainly
because of its simplicity and symbolism. Add to this its elegance and
beauty, there is no doubt why young people are attracted to it.
One of the more popular Chinese symbols used as a tattoo is the Yin
and Yang. The Yin and Yang design expresses perfect balance. The two
sides of the design show its meaning. The dark side represents the earth
and the female symbol while the lighter side represents the air and the
male symbol. Other meanings of the Yin and Yang symbol include purity
and perfection.
Another attractive Chinese tattoo pieces is the dragon. The dragon is
the national and cultural symbol of China. Many Chinese people feel that
the symbol of the dragon represents who they are as a nation. The image
itself is a symbol of supremacy and mystery.
People who use the dragon as their tattoos often forget the symbol
this mythical creature has. Aesthetically speaking, the dragon easily
catches anyone’s attention. As a tattoo design, the image of the dragon
has several renditions. Some of these renditions include the celestial
dragon, the coiling dragon, the earth dragon, the horned dragon, and the
yellow dragon. Each of these renditions has its own symbolism like being
the symbol of strength and courage for the horned dragon and the
expression of intelligence and knowledge for the yellow dragon.
Other symbols used as Chinese tattoo which are also popular today
include the tiger and the bamboo. The tiger symbolizes power and
intellect while the bamboo signifies durability and strength. Clouds are
likewise common Chinese tattoo symbols which represents long life,
power, and health.
Indeed, tattooing has come a long way and Chinese symbols are fast
becoming everyone’s favorite tattoo design. For men, getting a tattoo is
a sign of bravery. On the other hand, women consider getting a tattoo as
a sign of exquisiteness. No matter what the reason is for getting a
Chinese tattoo, it is great to know that the Western world is now
appreciating the culture of their Eastern counterparts. There is no
better way to show this but to sport one in your own skin just like many
celebrities have done. |