The dragonfly is one of the oldest insects in the world, its fossilized remains are found in the rocks of the Jurassic period. The dragonfly tattoo is most popular among young girls, but it is also found in men. A tattoo sketch always looks light and airy, beautiful and cute.
The dragonfly enjoys special respect among the Japanese. In Japan, this insect is a symbol of military courage and strength, and the largest Japanese island of Honshu was called "Dragonfly Island" in ancient times. Asking for victory in battle, the Japanese used dragonflies as a sacrificial gift to the gods. Dragonfly tattoo in the Land of the Rising Sun symbolizes happiness and joy, strength and courage.
The Chinese consider the dragonfly a harbinger of summer, the personification of fragility and changeability, weakness and instability, the Malaysians consider it a symbol of illusory nature, and in Vietnam it is used to predict the weather.
The Indians of America associated the dragonfly with activity and speed, an elusive whirlwind, and also believed that it was she who takes the souls of the dead. Their dragonfly tattoo is a symbol of renewal and rebirth after hardships.
Europe treated the insect extremely negatively; in the Middle Ages, the dragonfly was correlated with witches and was called the "devil's darning needle." According to Swedish lore, trolls used dragonflies as a spindle for sewing clothes. And in Romania, dragonflies are considered people who succumbed to the temptation of the devil and turned into insects.
In the modern sense, the meaning of a dragonfly tattoo is speed, grace, lightness, courage, dexterity, endurance and even wisdom. Such a tattoo is very suitable for brave and courageous girls, symbolizing external fragility and vulnerability, combined with inner courage and strength.
A dragonfly tattoo is often chosen by people who love speed and risk, are easy-going and not tied to one place. In addition, a dragonfly tattoo can mean freedom, invincibility and inconstancy.
A dragonfly tattoo can be done in black and white, or in dark blue and color. All bright colors are welcome: red, yellow, green, blue. A red dragonfly indicates the search for love and inner strength, a green dragonfly indicates wisdom, and a blue dragonfly indicates peace. A sketch of a dragonfly tattoo is done in the style of tribal, realism, or in a simplified form without drawing small details. Most often, a dragonfly tattoo is pricked on the shoulder, lower back, neck, back and wrists.
If you want to show your dual nature, combining tenderness and strength, then a dragonfly tattoo is perfect for this. Below are photos of dragonfly tattoos from different masters for your inspiration.
Do you like a dragonfly tattoo and are you thinking about going to a tattoo artist? Then we will tell you all the most useful and interesting things regarding the history, symbolism of this cute creature in the world and the art of tattooing.
Many people underestimate these insects, but they, like mosquitoes, are relics that have existed since the time of the dinosaurs. This is evidenced by samples frozen in the resin of prehistoric trees. Who knows, maybe these "living helicopters" will outlive people just like the giants who lived millions of years ago?
dragonfly on the grass
Dragonfly with blue wings
dragonfly realism
dragonfly realism
Dragonfly with a pattern
rainbow dragonfly
Nowadays, dragonfly tattoos can be seen in both sexes, regardless of their age, beliefs, social status. For some, it's just a picture, an abstraction. Others put a certain subtext into the image. Let's try to figure out what the meaning of a dragonfly tattoo is. Let's start with the symbolism of boys and girls.
Men are looking for some kind of symbol of strength, courage, etc. in such a sign, believing that by applying it to their body, they will show certain qualities in real life. Of course, one can argue that this is influenced by upbringing, environment, life circumstances. But there is some objective reason why people believe in.
Girls also have dragonflies in high esteem. The symbolism is very different. Here are just a few options:
Very often it is a symbol of frivolity. Remember Dragonfly and Ant. This is a kind of reflection of the ideas of decadence in Europe. Such frivolous ladies - lovers of parties, revelry and easy money were not taken seriously by the puritan part of society. But they were very popular with men, being relaxed and sexy, free from stereotypes. It is also a symbol of the fact that the freedom of a girl is, first of all, the desire to gain equal rights.
But the main value is not frivolity and frivolity, namely femininity, lightness and beauty, airiness.
What is the significance of this tattoo in the zone? Firstly, it is female, and secondly, it usually means that the owner was, to put it mildly, not the most righteous girl at large. So, if you see a woman with a dragonfly stuffed on her sacrum, there is a high probability that you are looking at a lady of free conduct who managed to visit a women's colony. However, young people are not aware of the "concepts", and often get tattoos, shameful in the zone, not knowing what they mean.
In addition, the meaning of prison tattoos may vary, depending on the site of application.
When a living being has such an unusual appearance, a person always carries out some kind of association. He begins to invent meanings, linking what he sees with his value system, beliefs.
Even the look of dragonflies affects their popularity among tattoo fans. The most common are "tombo". Akatobo is one of the national symbols in Japan. They are always red in color and signify courage.
The indigenous people of North America believed that these insects are associated with a journey to the afterlife, and at the same time symbolize speed, activity.
Among the English-speaking peoples, many insects have special names. In this case, dragonfly. In the Middle Ages, they were associated with sorcerers and witches. The Swedes in the old days believed that winged creatures serve the devil, weighing souls.
If the ladybug is traditionally associated with the Virgin Mary, then dragonflies are associated exclusively with devils. There is even a belief that the evil spirit uses them as a transport.
Realistic dragonfly tattoos begin our style review. These winged messengers of heaven look so beautiful and unusual that the artist does not even need to invent anything. Nature did it for us, creating a unique anatomy, specific aerodynamic characteristics and a pleasant appearance from a human point of view.
Realistic dragonfly tattoo If you are not a fan of high detail, and you think that the main thing is an idea, the embodiment of a certain idea, then try to look for original solutions in minimalism. These are usually black and white sketches.
sketch linework
Pattern sketch
Sketch with hearts
Sketch with background
sketch mandala
Sketch with flowers
sketch geometry
sketch key
Sketch bw and color
In a similar way, dragonfly tattoos are made in the style of geometry - a minimum of unnecessary details, verified lines, an ideal balance of form and content. A similar principle contains analogues of the lineart style.
If you want to bring bright colors into your life, then there are many options, and the most interesting of them is dragonfly watercolor.
Ethnic-tribal tattoos depicting dragonflies with the help of various patterns and decorative elements look very beautiful.
Do not forget about such familiar areas as old school and traditional. Over the years, they do not lose popularity and relevance throughout the world.
The choice of a person depends on his tastes and beliefs, as well as on the style in which his tattoo artist usually works. After all, many people prefer to constantly turn to one master in order to maintain a single general direction of drawings on their bodies. The abundance of pictures made by different people in different techniques often resembles fridge magnets brought from tourist trips.
One of the most popular motifs is the dragonfly, a vibrant insect that exudes elegance, charm and something mystical, making it an excellent choice for discerning tattoo lovers. In the article, we will analyze what a dragonfly tattoo means, and also consider photos of finished works and sketches for guys and girls.
Tattoo artists around the world are constantly looking for new designs that they can use in body art. When using a particular design element in their creative designs, they consider aesthetic appeal as well as symbolic value. IN different cultures world, the dragonfly symbolizes different things, we will talk about them in more detail.
The Japanese believe that a dragonfly tattoo brings positive energy that can keep their lives in harmony.
In Japanese culture, the dragonfly is considered a symbol of happiness and strength.
The Chinese believe that the dragonfly is a symbol of prosperity and harmony, while other Asian cultures perceive it as a sign of metamorphosis and transformation as the insect goes through various stages of change during its life cycle.
The primary meaning of the winged insect in Native American culture is protection. For this reason, in some tribes, the dragonfly sign applied to the body was considered a protective talisman, endowing the owner with strength and courage, helping to overcome life's difficulties.
The dragonfly on the body of a girl or a guy symbolizes freedom, good luck, beauty and charm.
In European cultures, the reputation of the insect is not so positive, as it is associated with evil and the devil.
IN modern world Dragonfly tattoos are revered as a symbol of the speed and agility that are characteristic of this small insect.
In general, men and women love this design because of its positive symbolism, as it reminds them that everyone is capable of facing life's hardships and hardships.
If you are one of the body art enthusiasts planning to get a dragonfly sketch inked, then consider yourself lucky as the tattoo is available in a variety of designs.
There are various designs created by tattoo artists that you can choose from depending on your own requirements and preferences. Below are some popular designs.
The tribal style involves drawing in solid colors such as black and gray. Mostly, given style chosen by men, because it looks somewhat defiant.
On the other hand, women may like more subtle and sophisticated tribal tattoo designs.
The watercolor design reflects the beauty and vibrancy of the insect. Watercolor tattoos look on the human body like paintings painted by artists on canvas.
3D tattoo. The drawing made in this technique has an incredible attractive effect. The design looks so realistic that it seems as if the insect is really sitting on your body, but at any moment it will again fly away into free flight.
Dragonfly and mandala symbolism. In this design, the designation of the dragonfly tattoo is complemented by mandala patterns, as a result of which the drawing acquires the symbolism of balance, harmony, renewal and love.
Minimalism. As a rule, minimalistic dragonfly tattoos have a gray-black color, and the design itself is especially simple, since the design consists of thin lines and strokes.
Geometry. To date, tattoos, including various geometric figures are at the peak of their popularity. Such drawings are distinguished by their special beauty and deep meaning, which will definitely appeal to people who want not only to become the owners of a beautiful, but also meaningful image.
Other design elements such as dream catchers, anchors, arrows, flowers and lettering can perfectly complement the main motif, giving it a unique look.
The most important aspect of drawing attention to a particular tattoo is its proper placement. Because dragonfly tattoo designs are not very large, this gives them a lot of versatility when it comes to placement. Depending on the size, as well as the complexity of the design, they can be worn on the chest, back, shoulder, arm or hip.
If you chose small tattoo, you can place it on the wrist, fingers, as well as the back of the neck, behind the ear or ankles.
In the photo gallery you can see the best works of tattoo artists from around the world. Probably, any of the tattoos will help you decide on a future sketch.
Dragonflies are one of the most ancient insects on our planet. Over hundreds of millions of years of their existence, they have successfully settled on all continents and climatic zones. Therefore, it is not surprising that the dragonfly is one of the important sacred symbols in almost many peoples.
The unusual appearance of the insect, as well as the ability of the dragonfly to hover in one place, after which it actually “disappears” from the field of view, made its image very status. This was especially noticeable in African cultural traditions. Insect tattoos were usually worn only by the highest social strata, which usually include hereditary nobility, priesthood and military command.
For example, among the Egyptians, a tattoo with a dragonfly on the wrist of the left hand meant the involvement of the owner of the drawing in the highest priestly caste, whose representatives were the only ones who had the right to touch the sacred figure of the “deity-pharaoh”. And if, for example, the scarab was considered in ancient Egyptian culture as a “dark symbol” of the transition to the afterlife, then the meaning of a dragonfly tattoo could most often be interpreted as the birth and emergence of a new life.
The most noble and wealthy Egyptians specially ordered highly artistic dragonfly tattoos for female concubines, or their daughters, when they were just getting married. Tattoos were usually done in the lower abdomen, below the navel or below. The image was interpreted as a security symbol of fertility. It was believed that its owner is obliged to endure a particularly healthy and strong firstborn.
To the south, in the African tribes, the image with a dragonfly was considered especially magical. As body tattoos, only shamans, their apprentices, and the strongest warriors (usually tribal leaders) could afford to wear it.
Oddly enough, but almost identical situation in relation to the cult of the insect developed in the Indian traditions of pre-Columbian America. The only difference is that people perceived such tattoos as a symbol not only of fertility and natural magical powers, but also of unsurpassed dexterity in handling onions. The best shooters of the tribe or clan had the insect knocked out on their hands in the area between the thumb and forefinger. The rest of the community could wear it anywhere, but in the generally accepted meaning.
In medieval Europe, the dragonfly was considered a very "dark" symbol. The image of an insect was often forcibly branded with all sorts of criminals. And the presence of a drawing on a woman’s body was clearly perceived as a reflection of her desire to communicate with dark otherworldly forces (otherwise witchcraft), or a direct hint of the lady’s occupation of the “oldest profession”.
Today, depending on the gender and location of the picture, the meaning of the symbol can be interpreted in various ways.
The dragonfly is a very tenacious and merciless predator. Therefore, in men, the drawing of an insect is most often associated with such qualities as physical strength, endurance and courage. For people in the know male tattoo with a dragonfly, is a very aggressive symbol. Since it deliberately declares the intransigence and fighting courage of its owner.
For this reason, the dragonfly is most popular among various security forces (military, special services, police, etc.), as well as people involved in combat contact sports (unruled fighting, boxing, wrestling, etc.).
Most often, the image of a dragonfly on the male body is found on the limbs, as well as the chest, shoulder blades and the base of the neck. Moreover, if this is an open area, then the owner of the picture, as it were, declares his readiness to measure his strength with an opponent at any moment. A tattoo with an insect in areas of the skin usually covered with clothing speaks not so much of militancy, but rather of a tough character and developed leadership qualities of the bearer of the picture.
The dragonfly has no less strong and unambiguous meaning in relation to the weaker sex. Due to the "bad" European history of the symbol, in the public mind, a dragonfly on a female body is often associated with something dark, which in most cases is absolutely wrong.
Let's figure it out right away: now, the dragonfly has a frankly negative aspect on the female body only in one case - if it is located in the region of the sacrum and coccyx. Then indeed, she points to the rampant lifestyle of its owner. Otherwise, the insect symbolizes the strong-willed and rebellious nature of its mistress, the girl's presence of a solid inner core. Her willingness to fight for herself and loved ones in the face of any life hardships and with all her might. This is a very "motivating" tattoo.
So, after discovering a “compromising” pattern on the body of your potential chosen one, do not rush to indiscriminately accuse her of all mortal sins. Even if a girl has made herself a tattoo “where it is not necessary”, this often happens due to banal ignorance. But a scandal from a “strong and strong-willed personality” with frequent “physical remarks” with all objects that came to hand will be provided to you in any case.
Dragonfly tattoo is a bright and original image that is most suitable for girls. The insect at all times attracted people with its mystery and mystery. What does a dragonfly tattoo mean contemporary art underwear painting, and what can it tell others?
The oldest inhabitants of our planet are insects. A dragonfly can be especially beautiful, light and even touching. People with special interest at all times treated this insect, endowing it with both positive and negative features. But everyone is unanimous in one thing: this insect is mythical and mysterious. Transparent wings and huge attentive eyes are fraught with a lot of unresolved issues.
Dragonfly designations were very diverse. In ancient monuments of culture, she was always depicted as graceful, feminine and sophisticated. For the Japanese, this is the absolute personification of masculinity and strength. One of the islands of this country even has the same name. Europe attributed witchcraft features to insects. They have even been compared to witches. Among the Indians, the dragonfly personified immortality and life after death. The Romanians are absolutely sure that the dragonfly used to be a man, and then turned into an insect, following the devil's temptations. There is also a belief that this winged beauty makes clothes for trolls.
A stylish dragonfly tattoo is suitable for many. It personifies a man both courageous and touchingly vulnerable. Everyone can put their personal qualities into this concept and express them with the help of a tattoo. Fans of speed, travel, ease of movement will opt for a dragonfly.
The dragonfly tattoo has the meaning of a windy person. The trusting and careless heroine of Krylov's fable is ready to treat, cheer and support everyone. But at the same time, she is looking for love, support, hoping to find someone who will not drive away or condemn. A woman with such a tattoo is always distinguished by wisdom, courage and determination. At the same time, she is graceful, refined, easy-going and very mysterious.
A dragonfly tattoo will help its owner convey the desire to be loved, as well as the desire for happy change. Modern fashionable and stylish women choose an image just for beauty, especially without delving into the symbolism. The dragonfly on the leg is able to further decorate the already beautiful female body.
Sometimes men use this tattoo. Men who are looking for change, who are looking for love, who prefer speed can express themselves with this tattoo. It will emphasize their wisdom, courage, originality and even brutality. Such a man seeks to meet his soul mate, start a family and find long-awaited peace. But sometimes the representatives of the stronger sex choose the image as a beautiful spectacular picture. In this case, a dragonfly on the hand looks appropriate.
The most spectacular sketches are obtained in 3D and realism techniques. Saturated colors, detailing, play of shadows make the tattoo exclusive. The dragonfly on the back of men looks spectacular on a large scale. Fans of monochrome images can opt for a minimalist style. Neat and well-defined lines make the drawing simple and concise. For a girl, a miniature tattoo is best done on the wrist or on the foot.
The representatives of the stronger sex should take a closer look at the trash polka style. It is expressive and symbolic. The image is mostly black and white, but sometimes an additional red color is added.
Watercolor is an interesting option, which is characterized by airiness and smoothness of lines. The insect is often depicted sitting on a flower. Dragonfly tattoo photos and ideas can be found on the Internet, but it will be easier for an experienced tattoo artist to choose the right sketch on their own. He will take into account all your wishes and make the tattoo unique and truly beautiful.
