Why get a tiger tattoo? There are as many answers to that question as there are designs available. But, one of the most important is the symbolism behind these beast. In most Asian countries, the tiger is thought to be the "King of Beasts," and is seen as a symbol of pure and raw power. Tiger tattoos often present an illustrated version of these symbolic meanings. Many tiger tattoos are done in a realistic fashion, meaning they often look as though they have been drawn whilst watching the animal live and in its natural habitat. Other designs, though, appear in a woodblock mode. These tigers are highly stylized; their shapes are long and fluidic. They may also appear in several different stances; on the prowl, lounging in the sun, and they may even occasionally be shown in a more languid manner, such as sitting under a tree while licking a large paw clean. Tiger tattoos can depict the beast in nature. Not only can you create a portrait of a tiger in the wild, you can utilize the unique markings to combine it into its setting. One idea is to borrow from the flowing woodblock style and show the lines of the tiger as branches from a dark, or even burnt tree. You may also show the tiger melding in with the darkness of the night sky or brightness of a hot sun. The tiger tattoo in the picture is a beautiful representation of a naturalistic done tiger.
The tiger tattoo holds a very high position in Asian symbolism. Most often it is considered to show the aggressive or destructive force that is within each person. It holds equal status, in influence at least, to the dragon. Whereas dragon tattoos represent the higher sense of self and the attainment of good, tiger tattoos represent the dark forces that can be found within each person. The appearance of a dragon tattoo and tiger tattoo together can hold different meanings, depending on the position of the two symbols. If the dragon and the tiger tattoos are at an equal level, this often symbolizes balance and harmony. If the tiger tattoo is shown overpowering the dragon, this often means the triumph of self-interest and aggression. However, if the dragon tattoo is shown beating the tiger, this would signify a triumph against dark forces. Tiger tattoos are rich in meaning and symbolism even on their own. Where African and western regions hold the lion as the king of the animals, the tiger occupies the throne in Asia. This gives tiger tattoos the interpretation of power. After all, the tiger tattoo is a very symbolic design that features a very powerful and dramatic animal.
