Peony Tattoo Meaning
The peony is the great flower of East Asian art. Lush and heavy with petals, it stands for prosperity, honor and a life lived boldly.
The king of flowers
In China the peony is called the king of flowers. It has been a symbol of wealth, rank and good fortune for more than a thousand years, and it often appears in paintings for weddings and new homes.
The peony in Japanese tattooing
In Japanese tattooing the peony, botan, is one of the classic flowers. It stands for wealth and good luck, and also for daring — a willingness to take risks and to accept the consequences.
Peony with a tiger or lion
In Japanese and Chinese art the peony is often paired with a lion or a tiger: the strongest animal with the most splendid flower. Together they balance power and beauty, strength and grace.
Love and romance
In Western tradition the peony is a flower of romance and of a happy marriage. Its soft, full shape makes it a favorite for feminine pieces.
Peony Tattoo Questions
What does a peony tattoo symbolize?
Prosperity, good fortune, honor and daring.
What does a peony mean in Japanese tattooing?
Wealth, good luck and the courage to take risks.
What does a peony with a tiger mean?
Balance between strength and beauty.