The carp tattoo carries powerful meanings. The fish, of Asian origin, is part of traditional legends and has recently been in high demand in tattoo parlors. Check out the meaning of the drawing and 75 ideas with different strokes and styles to inspire yours. They are lovely!
carp tattoo meaning
Carp is a fish of Asian origin that has different meanings. In China, the fish is linked to an ancient legend: at spawning time, carp should cross the Huang Ho River, swimming against currents and overcoming obstacles until reaching Jishinhan Mountain. The carp that made it to the top would turn into a dragon. Therefore, the carp tattoo can signify strength, courage and determination.
In Japan, colored carp, also known as koi, arose from a genetic mutation. Its meanings are linked to longevity, prosperity and overcoming problems.
75 carp tattoo ideas for you to decide your own
Now that you know the meaning of carp, check out 75 ideas for women’s carp tattoos and choose your next tattoo.
1. The carp tattoo is full of meanings
2. And it can be made from different techniques
3. minimalist
4. Or more realistic
5. For those who love an old school tattoo, get inspired by this one
6. You can make a drawing with black ink
7. Or all colored
8. The full arm carp tattoo is bold
9. But many women close the arm with neat illustrations
10. If you are thinking of a first tattoo, you can start with the small ones
11. Tattooing behind the ear is super discreet
12. And on the back of the neck is a charm
13. If you’re a fan of tiny tattoos, you’ll be enchanted by this one
14. There are different types of fish
15. You can choose to tattoo the common carp
16. Or the Japanese, also known as koi
17. And you are free to decide the trait
18. Can be thin
19. Or loaded in the details
20. Playing with colors is creative
21. The blue carp gains even more prominence
22. You can bet on delicate designs
23. It’s discreet on the foot
24. Or a medium tattoo and full of color
25. It is possible to complement the tattoo with other details
26. With flowers
27. Or with a phrase that inspires you
28. The back offers good space for larger tattoos
29. The carp tattoo on the arm is one of the most requested in studios
30. And there are many styles for you to choose one that suits you
31. The carp pointed upwards means strength to achieve goals
32. The carp pointed down means that you have already accomplished them
33. You can tattoo both heading in the same direction
34. Or complementing each other
35. In the yin-yang style
36. Or else representing a cycle
37. You can tattoo both on the same arm
38. Or use both to get the tattoo
39. Or even get a complementary tattoo with someone you love
40. For Pisces, here’s a way to be proud of your sign
41. It is possible to complete the drawing with your zodiac constellation
42. Super cute, isn’t it?
43. Another element that appears in carp tattoos is the moon
44. As if the fish were guided by her
45. The carp leg tattoo is a hit with women
46. And they are made at thigh height…
47. Up to the ankle
48. Different styles and techniques yield different tattoos
49. Can be in watercolor
50. Geometric
51. Fun
52. Or more serious
53. Made with a single stroke of black ink
54. Or loaded in the details
55. Can be tattooed with a continuous line
56. This tattoo is a blast, all stylized!
57. And this one is original
58. The carp tattoo on the rib is discreet
59. But on the forearm it is very apparent
60. Black and red are frequent in carp tattoos
61. The combination of tones makes the design sophisticated
62. Orange and blue are complementary colors
63. The color and the soft line made this tattoo super delicate
64. But there are also inspirations for tattoos full of attitude
65. And why not complement it with bunches of flowers?
66. Or with a sentence?
67. But tattooing just the carp is already full of meaning
68. Even if small
69. You can choose how to combine the closest carp in a circle
70. Or separated
71. Swimming in the same direction
72. Or in opposing positions
73. Of the delicate and colorful
74. Powerful hands made with black ink
75. The tattoo is full of meanings and has neat features
Do you already know which one is more your style? It is important that you are sure of the design, after all, the tattoo is eternal. Make sure you hire a professional tattoo artist to avoid any unforeseen circumstances.
Isabella Tamaki
She loves to travel, discover new cultures and new languages. Passionate about pop culture icons, extravagant clothes, musicals and storytelling of all kinds. Graduating in Communication and Multimedia and writing based on coffee and Coca-Cola.
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