Japanese dragon
Ruler of water and sky. A symbol of wisdom, strength and protection.
The dragon is one of the most important motifs in Japanese tattooing. Unlike in Western legends, it is not a monster to be slain but a guardian.
What the dragon means
The Japanese dragon, ryū, is tied to water: the sea, rivers, rain and storms. It embodies wisdom, strength and generosity, and its power serves to protect rather than destroy. That is why people choose a dragon tattoo as a sign of strength and protection.
A dragon is easy to recognise: the body of a snake, the scales of a carp, the antlers of a deer and claws, usually three-toed in Japanese depictions. It often holds a pearl, which stands for wisdom and the granting of wishes.
What the dragon is paired with
Clouds, waves and lightning are the dragon’s natural background. Among flowers, peonies and chrysanthemums accompany it most often and soften its ferocity.
The classic pair is dragon and tiger: sky and earth, water and wind. The dragon also appears with the koi, because according to legend a carp that climbs the waterfall becomes a dragon.
Where on the body
The dragon’s long, winding body wraps well around an arm or a leg, which makes it a frequent choice for a sleeve. The back gives it the most room: the whole figure, head, claws and tail are visible. A smaller version, the head alone among clouds, works on the shoulder, chest or forearm.
We settle the colour while designing. I most often do red, blue, green and black and grey dragons, choosing the colour so it stands out from the background.
Work
Full portfolio
Formats
Other styles
FAQ
01How much does a tattoo cost?
The price depends on the size, the placement, the amount of detail and the number of sessions. Tell me what you want, give the size and placement and attach references, and I will prepare a quote for your project.
02What is the first step?
Message me on WhatsApp or Instagram: your idea, placement, approximate size and references. I will tell you whether it can be done, suggest a format and a rough price, and then we book a consultation or go straight to a session date.
03How far in advance should I book?
I usually book a few weeks ahead. For large projects we plan the following sessions straight away.
04How do I prepare for a session?
Get a good night’s sleep. Eat a proper meal before the session and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and medication that affects blood clotting, provided stopping it is safe and agreed with your doctor. Wear comfortable clothes that give easy access to the area.
05Which styles do you tattoo?
Three: Japanese, neo-traditional and traditional. What they share is a bold outline and full colour, which is what makes a tattoo age well. Japanese is my main specialisation; neo-traditional and traditional I have tattooed alongside it for years.
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Contact
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- Polish, English