30+ Traditional Dragon Tattoo Designs For Men – Retro Ideas

Every era and region has feared and honored the dragon, from Asian warriors to medieval saints.

The Chinese revered the dragon for its strength, wisdom, and protective powers, while Europeans wove it into the fabric of their most epic tales, a creature to be challenged and conquered.

Regardless of where you stand, the dragon is undoubtedly a power symbol to wear on your flesh.

The dragon is a primordial creature, a ruler of the elements: earth, wind, water, and fire. In Chinese tradition the dragon’s season is spring, its figure facing east to meet the sun as it rises. The Japanese dragon, also known as the ryū or tatsu, appears in serpent-like form, with a direct tie to the sacred deities. Both cultures believe the dragon to be a powerful guardian to those who seek its magic with a pure heart and only the noblest of intentions.

Generally depicted in only the deepest, richest hues, a dragon tattoo is meant to be worn where it can be seen and admired, encircling the arm, leg, or embracing the length of one’s back.

The man who wishes to celebrate the dragon is a warrior at heart, a modern St. George who, instead of desiring to slay the dragon, seeks its wisdom and strength.