25 Gorgeous Peony Tattoo Designs with Meaning
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Floral tattoos are timeless. They’re an excellent method to combine feminine elegance with a strong personality. The Japanese peony tattoo is one of the most popular designs available. It can be used as a filler for larger pieces, incorporated into other patterns, or can be etched as a standalone tattoo design.
Peonies are available in a variety of hues, including coral and pink, yellow and purple, red and even green. These beautiful flowers are utilized in a variety of ways and for a variety of purposes throughout the world.
So, if you’re considering peony tattoo designs for your next embellishment, then you’re reading the right article.
In this article, we shall discuss everything about Japanese peony tattoo design, including peony tattoo meaning and tattoo ideas.
So, let’s get started…
Peony Tattoo Meaning
Native to Asia and Europe, these magnificent blossoms are mentioned in numerous mythology and folklores. The meaning of a peony tattoo varies from culture to culture. Peony flowers have a profound cultural significance in oriental cultures. These flowers are frequently included in tattoo designs, particularly in Chinese and Japanese tattoo styles.
Peony tattoos are mostly depicted in attractive forms in modern designs, and they are particularly popular among females. The name “peony” comes from the Greek word “Paeon,” which means “flower” (or Paeeon).
According to Greek mythology, there is a beautiful story of the peony flower, which goes like this:
Paeon was the physician to the Olympian gods and a pupil of Asclepius, the Greek deity of medicine and healing. Asclepius was envious of Paeon’s popularity, and Zeus, the god of sky and thunder and ruler of the Olympians of Mount Olympus, intervened to save Paeon from Asclepius’ anger by transforming him into a flower, the peony.
According to another legend, Apollo despised his sister Diana, the goddess of the moon and huntress. He tasked her with striking a figure walking on the horizon. This figure is revealed to be her beloved, whom she assassinates with a single bullet. Peonies were born where her tears fell, which is why peonies are sometimes associated with grief.
According to several mythical tales, shy nymphs concealed their nakedness among peony petals. This is why peonies are a symbol of embarrassment or timidity in several cultures.
The Romans used peonies to treat almost a dozen ailments. It was called blessed grass because it possessed magical and miraculous properties that shielded the crop, shepherds, and their flocks from witches, devils, and storms. The peony was employed to ward off evil spirits and to treat jaundice, gallstones, teething difficulties, seizures, and snake bites during the European Middle Ages. Peony seeds were traditionally used to ward off unpleasant nightmares and to alleviate stomach aches.
Peonies are frequently tattooed, painted, or planted as a symbol of honor, worth, wealth, and love.
For centuries, the peony has been regarded as the floral emblem of China, as well as “the king of flowers,” due to its enormous and exquisite petals that spread widely and their widespread use in culture and daily life. In China, a peony flower is said to symbolize riches and glory. It also represents the omens of love and success, among other things.
According to Chinese folklore, Gejin is a peony spirit that came to Earth after falling in love with a human. Fearful that her husband would be enraged if he discovered she was not worldly, she left two peony tresses behind.
Another story tells of an unbiased Empress who was enraged when her peonies failed to bloom. She exiled the flower to the empire’s coldest region; nonetheless, the bloom withstood the freezing temperatures. She was so taken with them that she decided to plant them in her garden.
A large number of places, poets, and songs are named with the prefix of peony, such as Peony River, a city in China’s northern province of Heilongjiang. Peonies are also popular as decorative components in traditional art and crafts, such as needlework and ceramics, because of their delicate nature.
In 1903, the Chinese government designated the Paeonia suffruticosa as the country’s national flower, marking the beginning of the Qing Dynasty. Despite the fact that it lost its status as a result of the shift in leadership, there is still controversy in China about whether or not it should be granted the title again.
What do different color peonies represent?
Peony tattoos come in different colors, such as white, pink, red, and so on. Each color carries a unique energy and meaning; here is what each color represents:
White Peony: The white peony blossom is a representation of feminine purity. White color emanates positive energy, vitality, and liberation.
Red Peony: Red peonies symbolize reverence, wealth, honor, and success. Red peony tattoo designs are considered best for people who wish to establish strong ties out of respect. Red is also the symbol of sexuality; hence a red peony also represents sexual femininity.
Pink Peony: The pink peony represents energy, love, and affection. So, if you want to show your love to a specific person, a pin peony is the best pick. Also, the pink peony signifies shyness, originality, innocence, and femininity.
Yellow Peony: Yellow peony tattoo designs are the tattoos of “LUCK.” Yellow peonies represent a positive life force, vitality, and a new beginning. Additionally, the blossom in this hue indicates unfettered youth. In a negative sense, it embodies rage and a desire for vengeance.
Aside from these, peonies also come in purple and other beautiful colors. So, if you love colorful tattoo designs, opt for your favorite color peony tattoo and get it etched on your body. You can even have a multicolour peony tattoo design etched on your body.
Peony Tattoo Placement
Like any other tattoo design, the placement of a peony tattoo also depends on its size and detail. However, most people love to get their peony tattoo designs in the following places:
- Arm
- Back
- Hand
- Wrist
- Fingers
- Legs
- Feet
- Calves
- Thighs
- Ribs
- Neck
- Ear
- Nape
- Shoulder
Let’s now take a look at the most beautiful peony tattoo designs. Here we go…
25 Inspiring Peony Tattoo Designs
1. Dragon Peony Tattoo
When combined with a dragon in traditional Japanese tattoo art, the peony takes on a whole new significance. By itself, the peony embodies masculinity and bravery. When combined with a dragon, it creates a delicate equilibrium.
2. Peony Rose Tattoo
Because of its distinctive characteristics, rose tattoos are extremely popular among girls. When it comes to peonies, however, these flowers are on par with roses in terms of beauty and rarity. Consequently, if you’re undecided about which flower to have imprinted on your body, a peony rose combination is the best option for you. The design of the rose peony tattoo is captivating. A gorgeous tattoo design featuring both of them will definitely catch people’s attention, so consider having both combined in one design.
3. Japanese Peony Tattoo
Peonies are frequently used in Japanese design due to the flower’s cultural significance. Traditionally, these motifs have been created in tones of black and crimson, which represent grief, powerful emotions, and prosperity. Peony tattoos in Japan are manly and protective and are frequently combined with other designs such as skulls, snakes, and dragons. Japanese peony tattooing frequently employs high contrast, bold line work, and complementary backgrounds to create dramatic compositions.
4. Peony Tattoo Sleeve
Tattoos are becoming more acceptable in society as time goes on. This means that you can have full sleeve tattoos without being concerned about being criticized or losing your job because of them. Peonies are frequently included in other floral arrangements to lend a sense of softness. When it comes to tattoos with a Japanese or Chinese motif, peonies are typically interlaced with snakes and dragons.
5. Shoulder Peony Tattoo
Peonies are perfect for shoulder tattoos because of the large space they offer. The peony design can be worn directly on the shoulder, down the back, or as an armpiece’s top. This location is perfect if you’re looking for a large piece due to its expansive size. The best thing is that shoulder tattoos come with less pain because of the thick skin on the outer section of the shoulders.
6. Small Peony Tattoo
Tattoos do not have to be enormous and obnoxious in order to have an impact. A little, delicate floral tattoo in a secret location has never been more popular as it is right now. Ink can be applied to the fingers and ankles as well as the wrists and hips for a more delicate look.
7. Neck Peony Tattoo
If you’re not afraid to be noticed, a neck tattoo is an excellent choice. It’s a daring and perilous location, but one that is bound to leave an impression. Keep in mind that this is not only a tough spot to conceal, but it is also one of the most uncomfortable options available.
8. Peony Tattoo Ideas on Back
Women are particularly fond of back tattoos. Because of their size and ingenuity, they appear to be absolutely stunning. Your artist will have a large amount of space to display his or her talents. If you want a large peony tattoo design with a lot of detail and color, the back is the greatest place to get it done. Furthermore, tattoos on the back are simple to conceal whenever and wherever you desire.
9. Peony Tattoo on Leg
Legs are a large area that lends itself to large peony tattoo designs. Due to the relatively flat surface area, the artist is able to integrate an abundance of color and detail into the piece. On your thigh, you can get a lovely peony tattoo design carved.
10. Peony Tattoo on Hand
Flower tattoos are quite popular among women. A peony tattoo hand makes for an excellent floral arrangement for women to flaunt their body artwork. Get an iconic red peony inked on the back of the hand in small size; it will look stunning. If you want, you can even have the mirror images on both of your hands.
11. Peony Tattoo Calves
Calf tattoos are very popular among tattoo enthusiasts. They make for a stunning location as the area gives your artist enough place to create a beautiful body artwork. You can have a colorful peony tattoo etched on your calf. The best thing is that you can hide your design at work and in other places where tattoos are not allowed.
12. Tattoo of a Peony Rib
Tattoos on the ribcage are quite popular among women since they draw attention to the body and showcase the individual’s natural shape. Tattoos of peonies on the ribs can be used to cover the entire sternum or can be placed discreetly to the side. Keep in mind that ribcage tattoos can be highly uncomfortable for those who are just starting out.
13. Pink Peony Tattoo
When we think of a peony shrub, the first thing that comes to mind is a bouquet of pink peonies. Pink peonies are highly beautiful and are usually used in bridal bouquets. They are also available in other colors. Take into consideration obtaining a pink peony tattoo to mark a love relationship, the anniversary of your wedding, or as a memorial. Peonies are available in a variety of shades of pink.
14. Realistic Peony Tattoo
Realistic Tattoos that are realistic in appearance are absolutely stunning. Getting a realistic-looking peony tattoo is a great way to stand out from the crowd. A realistic peony tattoo draws attention to the flower’s natural attractiveness by imitating the flower’s appearance. However, make sure that you get your realistic peony tattoo from a professional tattoo artist specializing in realism to ensure that you get the tattoo of your dreams!
15. Thigh Peony Tattoo
Due to their ability to allow large designs and the fact that they are very painless to tattoo, the thighs are popular tattoo locations. In order to increase your pain tolerance, get your peony tattoo design imprinted on the inside of your thigh.
16. Traditional Peony Tattoo
Traditional peony tattoos are typically large and quite manly in appearance. Traditional peony tattoo designs can be as delicate or as bold as you desire, depending on your preference. Ensure, however, that you discover the correct tattoo artist for your traditional peony tattoo, one who will assist you in getting the tattoo of your dreams.
17. Fine Line Peony Tattoo
You should choose a fine line peony tattoo design if you do not want to go overboard with your peony tattoo. Fine line tattooing is characterized by the use of razor-sharp lines that lack any shading or color variation. These tattoos have a subtle and elegant appearance. These tattoos are ideal for folks who want a simple yet detailed tattoo that isn’t overly flashy.
18. Peony Tattoos in Multiple Colors
Peonies are available in a number of colors, including pinks, reds, and yellows, which allow you to express yourself via color. You can have a peony tattoo in a variety of hues to create a unique and eye-catching tattoo design.
19. Black and Gray Peony Tattoo
If you’re not a fan of color tattoos, consider getting a black and grey peony tattoo. In order to bring attention to the shape and delicate elements of your design, black and grey peony tattoos are the most effective way. Tattoos in black and grey are incredibly versatile and can be applied to any part of the body with ease. It’s possible to have it etched on your nape. It will look fantastic in that location.
20. Black Peony Tattoo
If you’re not a fan of color but still want a striking tattoo, consider getting a black peony tattoo as an alternative. For a large black peony tattoo, the back or thighs are the best places to have it placed. If done correctly by professionals, black tattoos can be quite stunning.
21. Peony Tattoo with Skull
Flowers and skulls combine to create an incredible tattoo design. If you enjoy both of these features, a peony tattoo with a skull is the tattoo for you. When life and death are juxtaposed, it may serve as a valuable reminder to live each day as if it were your last. They make for an aesthetically pleasing and profoundly meaningful tattoo design.
22. Peony Tattoos in Watercolor
Watercolor tattoos are currently one of the most popular fads. Because of the use of light outlines and bold splashes of color, watercolor designs make a strong visual statement. Because of the inherent brilliance of the peony, they are an excellent choice for this modern tattoo design.
23. Lotus Peony Tattoo
The peony, along with the lotus, is just stunning. It is a representation of both beauty and fecundity. These flowers, when combined, make for wonderful body art pieces. So, if you’re not afraid to make a statement, get these two blooms etched together on your arm.
24. Peony Tattoo Feet
You should consider getting your peony tattoo on your upper foot if you want a one-of-a-kind site for it. The peony etchings on your feet will be really lovely. The mirror image can also tattooed on your feet for a unique and eye-catching matching tattoo design.
25. Purple Peony Tattoo
Peonies are stunning, and purple peony tattoo designs are just as striking as the flowers themselves. The purple peony is, therefore, an excellent choice for everyone who enjoys the color purple. Having a giant purple peony etched on your back, or a small purple peony etched on one of your hands are both options available to you. Anywhere you choose to put it will look lovely.
Wrapping up…
So, these are the top 25 peony tattoo designs for you to get some inspiration. We hope this article is informative and enlightening.
Happy Tattooing… ☺ ☺