Ten Peony Tattoo Ideas

In traditional Japanese tattooing peony tattoos hold deep symbolic meaning. The peony, often referred to as the “King of Flowers,” represents wealth, prosperity, and honor. It is a common motif in irezumi due to its bold, vibrant appearance and its association with good fortune and bravery. In Japanese culture, the peony also symbolizes the balance between beauty and strength, making it a popular choice for those seeking to embody both elegance and resilience in their tattoos. Peony tattoos are beautiful on their own. Peonies can also be found paired with other traditional motifs like dragons, koi fish, or tigers. Below are some tattoo ideas completed by Jason Owens and Mario Arcila at Thank You Co Tattoo.

1. Peonies on Chest

This tattoo shows two peonies on either side of a tiger head placed on the chest. Peonies are referred to as the “King of the Flowers” while tigers represent one of the strongest land animals. Both subject matter makes for a powerful design.

2. Peony on the Chest Panel

Many clients who get full sleeves or 3/4 sleeves will also add a chest panel to their design. A chest panel extends the tattoo on to the chest. This is a koi sleeve with a peony flower on the chest panel with windbars in the background. Peonies are a great subject matter to accompany sleeves of many different subject matter.

3. Peony Tattoo on the Hand

Hand tattoos are bold and highly visible. Designs on the hands are often smaller and intricate, making the peony a perfect choice.

4. Peony with a Hoju in the Middle

The hoju, believed to be a wishful jewel and bringer of good luck, is a classic image in Japanese tattooing. It is an orb shape with a pointed top. Placing this “gem” in the middle of a peony adds a uniqueness to the design.

5. Peonies with Snakes

In Japanese culture the peony symbolizes luck. Many consider snakes a lucky symbol, among other meanings, due to their ability to shed their skin. They are also considered to be the embodiment of rebirth, renewal, healing and total transformation. People say the snakes saves individuals from wrong decisions and encourages them to start over.

6. Peony Tattoo on the Thigh

Thigh tattoos offer a large space for a more detailed and expansive design. Placing the peony tattoo in larger space allows for more creativity and complexity. The placement of a thigh tattoo is in a less visible area of the body. Clients can cover or display these tattoos, making them a good choice for those who want the option to show or hide them.

7. Peonies as Part of a Leg Sleeve

Adding peonies to a Japanese Traditional leg sleeve enhances the design with vibrant colors and the deep meanings peonies provide. Peony tattoos are versatile and can blend with many different subject matter creating a visually striking compositions.

8. Peony tattoo on the Arm

A peony tattoo on the arm is a striking choice that combines beauty and strength. Positioning the tattoo on the arm allows the piece to be prominently displayed showing off the intricacy and details the petals are known for. The arm is also a versatile placement giving the ability to have the peony as a standalone design or to be added with other subject matter.

9. Peony and Foo Dog Tattoo

Foo Dogs, also called “Komainu”, are considered to be guardian lions and usually appear in front of Shinto shrines. They look like a lion and a dog, and symbolize protection and strength. They are often paired with peonies, the “Queen of Flowers”, while Foo Dogs represent “King of the Animals”.

Peonies in a Back Piece

Adding peonies to a back piece infuses the design with vibrant colors and depth. The broadness of the back allows the peonies to flourish and enhance the overall composition and design. When paired with traditional elements such as dragons, snakes, and koi, the peonies provide a balance of elegance and strength that create a visually compelling tattoo.