One of the most popular images for tattoos has always been and remains a carp. This symbol came to us from the Eastern culture, and is extremely revered in those parts.
Nowadays, carp are ornamental fish kept in artificial conditions. Aquarists keep them in aquariums, fountains and ponds. Previously, these animals were considered unremarkable, but now carp, bred by selective crossing, have amazing colors. Because of their beauty and perseverance, koi symbolize Asia. People have long used their image, believing that they have special meanings.
Luck is the main meaning of the carp tattoo. However, there are other values that are radically different. This is explained by the historical features of Asian countries, because these fish were relevant both in Japan and China.
For a long time, the inhabitants of the Land of the Rising Sun considered koi exclusively male symbols. With the birth of a samurai in the family, a sign with the image of a carp was hung on the dwelling. Gradually, this concept changed slightly, and koi began to symbolize a happy and successful life in the family.
In natural conditions, these fish literally survive, passing through strong currents, trying to find food and a suitable area of the reservoir for reproduction. In this case, the meaning of the tattoo is overcoming the difficulties of life. It symbolizes perseverance, willpower and the desire to go forward. People with such a tattoo are strong personalities who independently manage their own lives.
The Chinese are particularly sensitive to koi, considering them the kings of fish. In their culture, carp tattoo sketches symbolize superiority over others, a manifestation of power. There is a legend in the Middle Kingdom that a carp that has swum to the mouth of the Yellow River, where the Dragon's Gate is located, will turn into a mystical animal itself. Thanks to this legend, the locals gave the second name to the carp - dragon fish. There are other meanings of the koi carp tattoo. For example, they mean inspiration to commit fateful deeds. Those who have a koi tattoo on their body are lucky and blessed to succeed in all their endeavors.
In Eastern culture, koi carp means a symbol of longevity, since the life expectancy of fish in good conditions is more than 200 years!
As a rule, a fish tattoo is performed in color, in the Chinese or Japanese style, with the image of water,