The blue chrysanthemum tattoo has become an increasingly popular design in recent years. But what is the meaning and symbolism behind this beautiful flower tattoo? In this article, we’ll explore the history and cultural significance of blue chrysanthemums, examine common blue chrysanthemum tattoo designs, and help you determine if this iconic flower makes sense for your next ink.
The Meaning of Blue Chrysanthemums in Culture
In many parts of the world, the chrysanthemum is a symbolic flower that has been admired for centuries. Blue chrysanthemums specifically carry deep cultural meaning in countries like Japan and China.
In Japan, the chrysanthemum reigns as the official Imperial crest and seal of the Japanese Emperor. The Emperor sits on the Chrysanthemum Throne, and the flower is even depicted on Japanese passports. In Japan, blue chrysanthemums represent the royal family and the symbolic power of the throne.
In Chinese culture, all colors of chrysanthemums are honored during the Chinese Double Ninth Festival on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. Drinking chrysanthemum wine on this day is thought to prolong life and provide yang energy. Blue chrysanthemums represent longevity, rejuvenation, and nobility in Chinese culture.
Across both cultures, blue mums convey respect, honor, and good wishes. They make perfect gifts for major life events like births, weddings, and celebrations. Their royal symbolism also connects them to living with integrity and carrying oneself with grace.
Common Blue Chrysanthemum Tattoo Designs
Given the positive meanings associated with blue chrysanthemums, it makes sense that tattoo artists and collectors would want to ink this design. Here are some of the most popular ways to get a blue chrysanthemum tattoo:
– Realistic blue chrysanthemum flower tattoo – This is the most classic take on this tattoo. The artist replicates the look of a true blue mum with accurate detailing and shading. These pieces often look like the real flower is growing right out of the skin.
– Blue chrysanthemum and vines tattoo – Adding curled vines connects the chrysanthemum tattoo to growth and life energy. The vines can wind around other meaningful images or trail along the arm, leg, or torso.
– Chrysanthemum bouquet tattoo – Rather than isolating a single bloom, some choose a blue chrysanthemum bouquet tattoo. The arrangement looks like a beautiful hand-picked bundle of the blue flowers.
– Chrysanthemum shoulder tattoo – Thanks to their symbolism and vintage appeal, blue chrysanthemum tattoos work remarkably well as shoulder pieces. The shape of the shoulder nicely frames round bundle and winding vine designs.
– Geometric chrysanthemum tattoo – For a modern and minimalist twist, some people opt for geometric shapes and lines forming their blue chrysanthemum rather than a realistic flower. This keeps the tattoo’s meaning while stylizing the look.
– Watercolor chrysanthemum tattoo – Watercolor-style tattoos blend and bleed the colors together for a softer, more abstract look. This style paired with blue chrysanthemums makes a unique tattoo with plenty of movement.
Blue Chrysanthemum Tattoo Meaning
In general, someone who gets a blue chrysanthemum tattoo is looking to honor the flower’s symbolism of nobility, honor, divinity, and purity. Here are some of the key meanings people associate with blue chrysanthemum tattoos:
– Longevity and enduring life – The blue flower’s ties to prolonged life and longevity make this a fitting memorial or tribute tattoo. Chrysanthemums symbolically keep the memory and energy of a loved one living on.
– Calmness – The soft, cool blues used in the tattoos evoke tranquility, calmness, and peace. This can signify finding stillness amid chaos.
– Optimism and joy – The cheerfulness of the blue blooms translate to optimism, hope, and embracing life’s joyful moments. This meaning makes mums perfect for celebrating new chapters.
– Integrity – Chrysanthemums encourage living with grace, nobility, and morality. The blue flowers remind us to stay true to values and act with integrity.
– Individuality – Since chrysanthemums don’t follow an expected bloom pattern, they symbolize the beauty in our differences and idiosyncrasies. The tattoos celebrate embracing individuality.
– Femininity – Blue chrysanthemum tattoos are also connected to feminine divine energy, gentle strength, and the life-giving forces of nature. Women are drawn to their delicate beauty and maternal symbolism.
Ultimately, blue chrysanthemums represent staying true to who we are as individuals while continually seeking wisdom, clarity, and meaning throughout life’s journey. A tattoo of the regal blue flower celebrates human potential.
Tattoo Placement for Blue Chrysanthemums
Part of choosing the perfect blue chrysanthemum tattoo is finding the most fitting placement for your design. Here are some of the most popular body parts for these floral tattoos:
| Body Part | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Shoulder | The shoulder nicely frames round bouquet and vine designs. This spot also suits larger, detailed tattoos. |
| Forearm | The forearm gives great visibility and allows you to spot the art every day. Chrysanthemums work well down the inner or outer forearm. |
| Thigh | If you want a large, sprawling floral tattoo, the thigh is an excellent placement. The shape and width of the thigh complements both longer vines and big bouquets. |
| Behind the ear | For more intimate tattoos, behind the ear is a delicate and feminine spot. Mini chrysanthemum outlines and silhouettes work well here. |
| Ankle | The slender ankle area beautifully showcases solo chrysanthemum blooms or simple vine arrangements. |
Think about whether you want your piece to be private only for you to see or displayed front-and-center. Also consider whether you’ll want room to build upon your tattoo over time. This will help guide ideal placement.
Complementary Imagery for Chrysanthemum Tattoos
Blue chrysanthemums already bring loads of symbolism on their own. But you can add more context and meaning by creatively pairing the blooms with other meaningful images in your tattoo. Here are some options to consider:
– Chrysanthemum and butterfly – Since butterflies represent transformation and growth, they make perfect companions to the flowers that encourage us to seek wisdom as we change.
– Chrysanthemum and dragon – Dragons symbolize strength, longevity, and good fortune in Eastern cultures. Their attributes beautifully mirror the chrysanthemum’s ties to nobility and long life.
– Chrysanthemum and koi fish – Koi fish represent perseverance and triumph over adversity. Paired with mums, they remind us to stay strong and determined throughout our journey.
– Chrysanthemum and crane – Cranes symbolize immortality, good health, and familial devotion in many Asian cultures. Their attributes build on the chrysanthemum’s own positive symbolism.
– Chrysanthemum and bamboo – Bamboo conveys flexibility, resilience, and rapid growth. The pairing represents how we continue growing and changing while staying true to ourselves.
– Chrysanthemum and waves/water – Waves or water designs represent fluidity, life’s ebbs and flows, and going with the current rather than fighting it. This complements the mum’s symbolism of calmness and tranquility.
Pair your chrysanthemum with imagery that speaks to you personally for a completely customized tattoo brimming with meaning and symbolism.
Conclusion
From ancient China and Japan to modern parlors, the striking blue chrysanthemum continues inspiring us with its symbolism, elegance, and rich cultural legacy. The distinctive flower makes a meaningful and beautiful tattoo choice when thoughtfully placed and designed. A blue chrysanthemum tattoo speaks volumes about the wearer’s individuality and integrity while honoring the journey of life. Let this regal bloom inspire you and keep you moving gracefully on your path as you live and grow.
