80 dragon tattoo ideas inspired by everything from folklore tales to Game of Thrones
John GriffithNowadays there is such a vast variety of different tattoo ideas. You have so many options to choose from. And, although, there are some new trends, which are taking the world by storm, there are a few, which have more than held their own in the history of tattoo trends. One of these styles is the dragon tattoo. Worn by both men and women, it is a beautiful addition to your body art. The good thing about dragon tattoos is that they can be done in many different ways. Scary, cute, cartoonish – different dragons have different meanings. Today, we are going to show you 80 examples of beautiful dragon tattoos you can recreate. We are also going to discuss their meaning and symbolism.
Gorgeous dragon tattoo
The history of dragons:
Dragons are serpent-like, giant creatures, found in the folklore of different cultures around the world. In Western cultures dragons are most often depicted as giant, winged, four-legged, fire breathing creatures. On the other hand, in Eastern cultures, dragons are wingless, snake-like creatures. Dragons often appear in folklore tales, myths and legends. In Western culture they are most often an obstacle, which needs to be overcome in order for the hero to achieve his goal. They often live in caves, protecting a treasure. One of the most well-known religious tales is that of Saint George slaying the dragon. It is often painted on church walls and icons. In modern literature, they can be found in some of the most famous books, such as J. R. R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit”, J.K Rowling’s “Harry Potter” and George R. R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire”.
Dragons have a long history in the folklore of different cultures
What does a dragon symbolize?
Depending on the culture, dragons are a symbol for different things. In Europe, for example, dragons are a symbol of an obstacle one needs to overcome. While in Asia, dragons are a symbol of wisdom, supernatural power, strength and hidden knowledge. Here are some examples of different dragons and their meanings:
- Chinese dragons symbolize strength and power.
- Horned dragons are considered the strongest of their kind.
- Coiling dragons are the ones, which live in the ocean.
- Spiritual dragons are in control of the wind and rain.
- Yellow dragons are the ones with most wisdom.
Breathtaking dragon tattoo covering the whole back
To sum up, dragon tattoos are often chosen for the variety in styles and meanings. What’s more, they look just as good in black ink, as they do colored. Moreover, whether big or small, their shape is so versatile, they are appropriate for any body part. In conclusion, you will not make a mistake if you decide to get a beautiful dragon tattoo.
Incredible black watercolor dragon
Scary coiled Chinese dragon
This one is absolutely beautiful
And here is a sketch you can try and recreate on your body
Elegant red dragon with a peony flower for accessory
Simple and elegant
Watercolor dragon tattoo of the highest calibre
Ouroboros are associated with snakes, but they are just as interesting with dragons and in watercolor
Dreamcatcher and dragon – two of the biggest tattoo trends gathered into one
Beautiful tattoo on the back
How to Train Your Dragon became one of the most successful animated films, which is why Toothless can often be found in tattoos
Watercolor designs are truly spectacular
Daenerys Targaryen, Drogon, Viserion and Rheagal – the Game of Thrones characters, whose faces are found on people’s bodies very often
Here is a gorgeous sketch of Daenerys Targaryen with Drogon, Viserion and Rheagal as babies you can use as tattoo
The fight between the dragon and the phoenix
The tattoo from The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo became one of the most famous designs after the success of the film
Matching dragon tattoos
Dragon ouroboros
Another version of Drogon, Viserion and Rheagal
Amazing dragon sleeve tattoo
Small dragon tattoos
Gorgeous design idea for a tattoo
Geometric dragon thigh tattoo design
Yin-Yang
Girl petting a dragon – beautiful shoulder tattoo design
