There are many cool floral designs used in body art but if you like images with oriental connotations you may want to consider having a peony tattoo. This powerful flower symbolizes beauty and fragility but is also synonymous with one who knows that huge risks must often be taken to reap grand rewards. This particular flower also serves as a reminder of how fleeting the nature of our existence actually is but when used as body art it has very positive symbolism behind it including good fortune, wealth and prosperity.
Historically, the peony has admired and cultivated for thousands of years and was greatly revered in both China and Japan. In fact it is on par with the sacred lotus, chrysanthemum and cherry blossom and considered to be a symbol of wealth. A lion image is often used alongside a peony tattoo and this is symbolizes protection due to ancient customs when stone lions were situated to guard palaces, homes and sacred place like temples. Japanese tattooing practices use peonies to emulate those with a Samurai attitude, a gambler or risk taker, one who is daring and willing to live life on the edge. In fact much like to samurais themselves who live each day as if it were their last according to the Way of the Warrior, which is the Code of Bushido followed by any true samurai.
As well as lions there are other elements that are often used in conjunction with a peony tattoo particular ferocious creatures like dragons and demons, to create the prefect balance between power and beauty. The Japanese name for peony is “botan” and, when used in a pairing with a lion or “Shishi,” these tattoo designs are referred to as Karajishi which counteracts the ferocity of the mighty lion with the peony’s delicate, fragile beauty. This could be considered a variation from the traditional Yin and Yang but is actually a very significant stand alone symbol too.
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