Koi and lotus tattoos. What does a koi carp tattoo mean? The meaning of the Japanese lion tattoo

Another prominent representative of the tattoo culture is the carp, or, as the Japanese call it, “koi”. Koi carp is a symbol of courage, wisdom, strength and perseverance in achieving your goals. Rumor has it that if someone makes himself such a tattoo with a Japanese fish, then he will be accompanied by success and good luck in subsequent affairs, and than larger plot the body is occupied by the image of a carp, the more luck it will bring.

Significance in men

Carp is considered the king of fish that live in the sea and river depths of the whole world - hence the carp tattoo got the meaning of power and absolute leadership over others. The man who wants to depict a carp on his body usually acts as a mentor, overseer or leader, since he has the ability to lead a crowd of people, can direct the situation in the right direction and he will return in the right direction. Since koi are known to have a fairly long lifespan, this has long fascinated Buddhists, and they have pondered the relativity of the time that is given to each of us.

The meaning of a koi carp tattoo in women

A tattoo depicting a Japanese carp is often found only in males, so it is rather difficult to call it female, but this does not mean that a girl will not want to get such a tattoo. Many female representatives would love to make such a pattern on their bodies. The tattoo will practically not change in its own way and will mean that its owner has a tough masculine character, she can independently cope with life's hardships and difficulties. Such a girl is quite decisive in all her endeavors.

Where and in what style to get a tattoo

As already mentioned, koi love to occupy large areas of the body, so the most suitable place for a tattoo is the back. A large number of we can find images with a carp on the back on the Internet and make sure that the tact drawings are original, it’s quite difficult to find two similar tattoos, because not armed with a glance, differences are noticeable not only in the sizes and diverse colors of the carps themselves, but even the shape of their scales, tail and fin can differ significantly. Although, despite the fact that we highlight large tattoos with a Japanese carp on the back, on the other hand, thanks to its oblong shape, it will fit perfectly both on the hands and on the legs of those who wish.

Traditionally, carp is depicted surrounded by waves, water, or. You can also find options where a koi carp is adjacent to another carp or even a Dragon. Sometimes you can find a sketch where a koi has a Dragon's head instead of its head, but these are already variations ...

Usually, a koi tattoo is inked in color to show all its beauty, but do not forget that initially the carp was a nondescript gray fish, and hid from the eyes of people in the muddy places of freshwater rivers and in algae. And such a handsome man, which we can observe today, carp owes to Chinese and Japanese breeders who spent a lot of time before the world saw such a variety of colors of the fish we mentioned. Therefore, koi can be done in classic black and white or trash polka, not limited to watercolor, oriental or realism. As you can see from the photos, a carp tattoo looks spectacular in any style and on any part of the body, so there shouldn’t be any problems with choosing the place of application.

Girls most often choose tattoos small sizes, so the back is not the most common place for such a picture. It is not uncommon to see an image of a carp on a girl's shoulder, a slightly larger tattoo on her thigh or on her side. More original girls choose such places as the neck, wrist or ankle.

IN modern world carp fish is well known as a decorative animal for aquariums, and is drawn in a tattoo most often surrounded by the elements of water or some symbols of Asia. Because the tattoo of this mysterious fish came to us from ancient Japanese culture. Once upon a time, carp was an ordinary, gray river fish, and hid from the eyes of people in the muddy places of rivers and algae. But today this type of fish has diversified and developed so much that once gray fish became like floating gems. Not without the help of selection, today the carp has incredible colors, shining and shimmering in the sun. Therefore, the carp has become a well-known symbol of Asia along with sakura and lotus.

The main meaning of a carp tattoo is luck. But his interpretations can be conditionally divided into two types: the first has Japanese culture as its source, the second - Chinese.

The Japanese revere the carp as a purely male symbol, flags with the image of a carp were hung on the house when a boy was born in it. But after that he became a symbol of a joyful life and family well-being : a black carp is a symbol of a father, a fiery red carp is a symbol of a mother, white or blue is a symbol of a boy-son, a pink carp is a sign of a daughter.

In nature, the life of carps is a constant struggle, they always have to fight with the flow of rivers, overcoming kilometers in search of food or places to procreate. That's why carp tattoo meaning often interpreted as a symbol of struggle and incredible willpower, a symbol of survival and a thirst for life. Such a tattoo is suitable for very purposeful people who are able to deal with all obstacles on the way to their sacred goal. The carp has become a symbol of those who change reality, those who build their own destiny and change circumstances themselves, can also be a sign of courage and victory in the fight against difficulties.

In China, Koi (Carp) has a special meaning. He is considered the king of all fish on earth, therefore embodies absolute power and superiority over all others. It is also called dragon fish, because legend has it that every carp that can climb the Yellow River up to the Dragon Gate itself will also be turned into a dragon. Therefore, the carp is a symbol of inspiration for people striving for particularly complex and ambitious goals. This tattoo gives its owner a blessing, it is believed that the more carp on the body, the more luck it brings.

Carp is a symbol of the independence of the soul and body, it stimulates success, no matter what. In general, in the Buddhist religion, carp has become a symbol of fearlessness and courage, and in the East they also admire its longevity.

If you are not afraid of difficulties in life and want to live always in motion, a carp tattoo is what you need.

In the 14th century. The fish were dark.

But, natural mutations led to deviations in color. The Japanese considered them signs from and wanted to keep them.

Special fish began to be kept as domestic, crossing among themselves. And so the koi was born. Its representatives go through at least 6 selection selections, that is, 6 crosses with each other.

There are 14 approved koi colors. The Japanese consider the national fish. No wonder so many want to put it on the body.

But, if the Japanese know the additional meanings of the image, foreigners often lose sight of its nuances.

Meaning of the Koi Carp Tattoo

The word "koi" means "love" in Japanese. Residents of the country use different concepts for its incarnations. Koi is love between a man and a woman.

If you want to express feelings, for example, to parents, or homeland, the plot is chosen incorrectly. The correct interpretations of the symbol include wrestling.

carp koi tattoo, depicting a fish swimming against the current. In nature, this is justified by the search for food and partners for procreation.

In images, the struggle with the flow is considered as the ability to withstand life's obstacles and adversities.

It turns out, carp koi tattoo meaning, which can be interpreted as a victory over circumstances and a sign of stamina, masculinity.

With the help of tattoos, you can emphasize the already existing qualities of character, or, on the contrary, “order” purposefulness and endurance from Heaven.

By the way, in Feng Shui it is believed that it will work only next to its environment. For carp, it's water. Therefore, it is better to draw fish against the background of waves.

Historically, the koi carp is a symbol of the stronger sex. In Japan, there is even a custom to hang a flag with a fish over the house if it is born.

In part, this is consonant with luck. In the country of the Rising Sun, as in, the clans follow the lines. Therefore, the birth of a boy is especially valuable. The birth of an heir is good luck.

Another interpretation of the meaning carp tattoo associated with legends. In them, the movement of fish against the current is explained by the mythological purpose.

Struggling with streams of water, carp swim along the Yellow River to the gates. Having reached them, the fish turn into heavenly ones.

Therefore, koi carps are considered kings among their own kind, and they are also associated with them.

The latter are recognized in China as a symbol of imperial power, wisdom, wealth and productivity.

Types of tattoo carp koi

Tattoo sketches with carps, koi are divided according to the number of fish. The meaning of the paintings depends on her. Nine koi, for example, represent wealth and prosperity.

Therefore, people not only try on pictures with carps for themselves, but also put fish in their houses.

Japanese carp koi tattoo, also, are divided depending on the color of the fish. Well-known - orange-.

Such koi are the most common and are called the fish of the land of the Rising Sun. Accordingly, orange individuals are a symbol of the fulfillment of desires, fairy tales. Part of Koi albino.

They are considered the emblem of men. If the fish is bright, it may be a sign, in particular, personify the image of the mother.

If we are talking about a girl who has not known motherhood, they depict a pink carp. There are also individuals with spots. They are associated with contrast, the interaction of opposites, and yang.

Another classification with koi is related to their division into abstract fish and concrete characters.

Some carps have become cartoon characters, while others are written in legends. In these legends, as a rule, there are additional heroes.

Next to them, the meaning of koi is specified. So, in China there is a myth about Qin-Gao. The elder happened to ask the fish in the pond to ferry him through the water barrier. Only the carp responded.

He sailed for so long that he ended up on the opposite bank of Qing Gao only after 100 years. I wanted to tell about what I saw to my contemporaries and went back, but again I traveled for a century.

Considering that the hero was not initially young, he had to rest on the way. But, the energy of the magic fish helped the old man.

Therefore, the image of an old man next to a koi is considered a symbol of longevity. Carp themselves, by the way, actually live for about 200 years. This scientific fact, not a legend.

Koi carp tattoo for men

It has already been said that koi, in principle, is a sign of men, if we exclude bright individuals from the list. What does the Japanese carp mean for the representatives of the stronger sex was also indicated.

From the new information, we will give a concretized image of koi, one of those that tattooists advise men. From the myths of China, let's move on to the folklore of Japan.

On its lands there is a legend about Kintaro. This boy lived a millennium ago, possessed remarkable strength and, according to legend, defeated a huge carp.

He could win up only having a spiritual connection with the king of fish. Therefore, those who fight koi carp and kintaro tattoo, symbolizes double fortitude, double courage.

Kintaro is depicted with orange. This is one of the pointers to the equality of carps and a kind of relationship with them. the baby is covered with a zaramaki belt.

Tied fabric is a protective symbol. The Japanese consider the belly to be the seat of the soul. Therefore, zaramaki have something to protect.

Emotions are Kintaro's only weakness, accustomed to hiding his feelings, like most men.

0 Have you ever been fascinated by the breathtaking view of the peaceful Carp in the pond? These colorful creatures are wonderful nourishment, but if you're thinking about getting a Carp tattoo, do you know what this totem image means?

Koi is the Japanese name for carp, and the full name of this fish is " nishikigoi”, which translates as “colored carp”. Although this fish has become the most important symbol of Japanese culture, it actually acquired its royal status on the shores yellow river in China in the Middle Ages. It is said that Carp did the impossible by swimming against the current of a full-flowing waterfall known as " Dragon Gate". This legend spread with the help of Chinese merchants and sailors, and eventually found their way to the islands of Japan.
Before I continue, I want to advise you to pay your attention to a couple of interesting publications on the subject of tattoos. For example, what does Tattoo Kangaroo mean; how to understand Kiwi Tattoo; what does Tattoo Knife mean; the meaning of the Antelope Tattoo, etc.
So let's continue Meaning of Carp Tattoo?

Over a thousand years ago, the Prussian carp was originally domesticated and selectively bred in China to display the graceful beauty we now all love. Although the exact date when Karp got into Japan Although it is not known exactly, records show that the beginning of Koi breeding on the tiny island of Honshu dates back to the early 1800s. By the 1900s, Japan was completely infatuated with this adorable fish, and this affection eventually spread throughout external world not without the help of the outbreak of hostilities. With the outbreak of the First World War, Japan began to gradually open its borders, and the world learned about the Japanese love for the delicate fish Koi.

The traditional Japanese art of tattooing, known as Irezumi, is practiced by skilled craftsmen who spend countless years perfecting their craft. tattoos Irezumi are intricate designs that are almost always done without the use of electric needles or pre-mixed inks. When creating Irezumi, you need to show a certain determination and perseverance, since making such intricate details using only old-fashioned methods is not an occupation for the faint of heart. These artworks are commonly worn by members of the Japanese underworld, and often contain brightly colored Koi fish. The fish is considered a totem of courage, nobility, ambition, loyalty and the personification of strength of character, the traits that criminals cherish so much. Irezumi tattoos with the Koi motif were considered badges of honor, and the only men who proved worthy to wear these designs were those who showed no fear in the face of a certain danger.

The fish has also become a symbol of many other useful human qualities. His name " Koi» in a homophone (words that sound the same but are spelled differently and have different meaning) for the Japanese word for "affection" or "love", is a sign of a close relationship. They are also emblems of success, good luck, prosperity and ambition, which is why many businesses have beautiful Koi ponds at the entrance to the establishment. Feng Shui principles dictate that the direction in which the Koi swims will greatly influence your future wealth and prosperity. A koi that swims against the current (upstream) brings good luck to its owners.

You don't have to be a devout worshiper Japanese culture to appreciate the symbolism of the Koi tattoo. It is enough for you to be a lover of beautiful art.

Meaning of Koi Tattoo

The beautiful Carp fish encompasses many symbols and meanings. These include:

• perseverance
• Ambition
• Love and friendship
• Elegance and Grace
• Hidden strength and power
• Wealth and prosperity

Carp tattoo options

Koi tattoos happen different colors, but did you know that each color has a specific meaning. It is believed that filling your pond with fish that have gold, silver or platinum hues will bring you wealth and prosperity. "Ogon Koi" and "Yamabuki Koi", known for their beautiful metallic hues, are popular species that float in ponds and aquariums around the world. Because Koi is a symbol of Love and Family, their colors can be used to represent people close to you. Koi fish with white or blue flowers represent a son, and pink means the presence of a daughter. A carp with a bright red color symbolizes the mother, the love and affection she offers to her family. The red Koi also represents Courage and Strength. Black koi is a sign of a strong father, Success and Transformation. In many cases, artists add other elements to tattoos to give the design a special meaning.
Popular variations of the Koi Tattoo include:

Dragon and Koi Tattoo

The legend of the Dragon Gate is alive and well known in Asian culture, which is why Koi tattoos feature both dragon and Koi fish. The Carp and Dragon Tattoo represents Transformation, Rebirth and Success after overcoming very difficult obstacles in life. Such a drawing symbolizes your desire to start anew, and find balance and harmony, using the philosophy of Yin and Yang. The Dragon is a being of Fire and Strength, while the Carp is an element of Tranquility. Koi and Dragon, locked in an eternal dance, show your desire to find harmony between these two seemingly opposing forces. In order to learn more about the Dragon Tattoo, I recommend visiting this informative article.

Tribal carp tattoo

Members of indigenous tribes have long held the belief that decorating their bodies with the image of a sacred animal totem is a way to draw the animal's energy and spiritual essence into their bodies. Many tribes do this by using their own unique series of emblems and patterns that have special cultural and spiritual significance. Putting a Tribal Koi Tattoo in your sketch is a way to associate yourself with a particular region, and convey the noble characteristics of Tranquility, Love, Friendship and Prosperity that this bright and beautiful Koi fish embodies.

Koi and Lotus Flower Tattoos

Both the colorful Carp and the delicate lotus flower are the epitome of Purity, Feminine Elegance and Perseverance. A delightfully beautiful Lotus grows out of the disgusting stagnant water, and the persistent Koi will never shy away from overcoming the powerful water flow erupted by a waterfall.

Koi and Cherry Blossom Tattoos

In China, cherry blossoms represent Hope, Femininity and Fertility, but the sweet cherry blossoms also carry a somewhat ominous meaning. In Japan, Kamikaze pilots painted beautiful maidens on the sides of their planes before taking off on a suicide flight. Cherry blossoms show our mortality, and the honorable glory of dying in the name of our country. Fallen cherry blossom symbolizes brave soldiers or samurai who have completed their earthly deeds. The cherry blossom and carp tattoos are the most popular in Japanese culture and represent not only Purity, Perseverance and Courage in the face of adversity, but also the essence of the Feminine.

Carp and Yin Yang Tattoo

Duality human nature expressed by Yin Yang tattoo and carp. It shows your desire to achieve harmony and balance between seeming opposites, and complement the rational, calm side of your personality. Yin Yang and Carp tattoos can depict a Dragon and a Carp, a Phoenix and a Carp, or two Carps circling each other in the subtle dance of Life. In these designs, the Dragon and Phoenix represent your passionate, fiery nature, while the Carp represents your calm, logical side. When you have drawn two Karp, their color matters the most. Black or blue represents your powerful masculine nature, while shades of red, pink or orange are reserved for your subtle, feminine side.

carp tattoo

Probably The best way represent your zodiac sign, this is a beautiful koi tattoo! People who are ruled by the natural element of Water and the planet Neptune are known for their willingness to embrace change and go with the flow in the name of seeking. a better life. Koi are also very adaptable, ambitious and never give up in the face of adversity. As such, the Carp Tattoo is perfect for any Pisces (zodiac sign).

No matter which option, Carp Tattoos you choose is great way demonstrate that you have a strong spirit and a great ability to adapt. You can include any element in your design and create a tattoo that speaks to your personality. The only limit is your imagination. For inspiration, go to the "tattoo" section on our website, and you are sure to find what suits you the most.

By reading this article, you have learned Meaning of Carp Tattoo, and now you won’t get into a quandary when choosing a new tattoo.

Watercolor carp tattoo on the shoulder, photo from: https://www.instagram.com/p/Bu6zPovABkT/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The koi carp entered the tattoo culture as one of the symbols of the irezumi, the yakuza tattoo. In the language of signs, a fish with golden scales denotes greatness, imperial power and male power. The number of values ​​has grown after the integration of the sketch into the European and American tradition. With the appearance of images of two continents in the pantheon, carps adorn the skin of not only men, but also women.

Who is the tattoo for?

Carp, tattoo originally male character. In the Land of the Rising Sun, the drawing of a carp on a woman's body is considered unacceptable, it can be stuffed for exceptional merit. This is because initially golden Koi is associated with the energies of male fertility and. The energy of the sign is not suitable for soft and vulnerable girls, as it can introduce a serious imbalance in the emotional state.

Koi tattoo will suit purposeful and strong personalities. It enhances the qualities of perseverance, rigidity of character. Ideally fit into the life of a leader leading people. If you want to dominate, conquer and set your own rules, carp is the perfect companion.

Koi Tattoo Meanings

The Japanese carp occupies the first positions of popularity among oriental motifs in tattoos. This fish has more admirers than or sakura. The frequency of tattoo orders competes with the eastern dragon.

Popular interpretations of carp:

• strength of mind;
• male fertility;
• leadership, power;
• longevity, immortality;
• imperial child;
• harmony;
• the joy of life;
• meditation;
• search for perfection;
• finding yourself.

The choice of this symbol is not accidental. The owner strives for perfection, tries to master his destiny. He is not afraid of difficulties, he builds his plans based on sober calculation and tactics. The tattoo is suitable for leaders and strong-spirited individuals who are ready to defend their convictions.

Carp tattoo meaning for men

The tattoo is considered traditionally male symbolism. The carp brings power and confidence to its owner. This is a harmonious symbol of the living at the junction of two worlds - land and water. The carp itself is considered a symbol of the sun. This gives it a unique energy charge.

Koi tattoo interpretation:

• charming and collected person;
• hero;
• good friend;
• leader;
• sense of humor with a share of irony;
• control over the situation;
• energetic and calm person;
• enthusiasm;
• wealth;
• reliable father;
• undisputed leader.

Karp successfully helps psychologists, journalists, businessmen, TV presenters, sports coaches and athletes in their lives. It suits people who strive for independence. Strengthens the qualities of character that allow a person to surround himself with a caring society. Koi wearers have a reputation for being reliable and loved by the community.

The meaning of a carp tattoo for girls

Even among orthodox rules there are exceptions. In the new reading, the symbol is adapted for girls. However, there are limitations here, since the sign still carries a tough male energy. This is a sketch for purposeful and balanced natures. Like men, tattoos suit leaders and strong personalities.

Tattoo meaning for girls:

• striving to be the best;
• indispensable assistant;
• loving and faithful companion;
• mistress of her destiny;
• calmness and self-confidence;
• optimistic character;
• passionate lover;
• wit and charm.

Sleeve tattoo, photo from: https://www.instagram.com/p/BusdB-uF5Rq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

For girls, drawing brings prosperity obtained by their own efforts. The brighter the tattoo, the more luck in financial matters it will bring. However, the main rule is to achieve success on your own without relying on circumstances or outside help.

Options, styles, tattoo compositions

Japanese fish tattoo performed according to the laws of the irezumi genre. Traditional images require a detailed study of the drawing. In carp, gill covers should be clearly visible, resembling a commander's helmet.

Scales are associated with armor. A strong tail is a symbol of life direction and the ability to turn the situation to your advantage. That is why it is often drawn bent to the right side for women and the left side for men. The fins are a symbol of a weapon that will never dull.

New trends have given tattoos their outlines. Images from rice scrolls made in ink are transferred in a watercolor style. Realistic drawings in 3D or realism are also extremely popular. To transfer the image, hatching techniques from graphics, dotwork dotwork technique and composition construction from sketch style are used.