The monkey is an important animal in Chinese culture; one of the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac. If you're toying with the idea of getting a Chinese monkey tattoo, know the symbolism behind the monkey in China before you get inked. It's as important as choosing the right design, artist and location for your tattoo. Get a tattoo of a Chinese monkey, if you feel you resonate with the qualities expressed by this animal in Chinese culture. Some who like the visual design of a monkey, may find they are less interested in this tattoo once they know what it symbolizes.
The Monkey in China
As one of the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac, the monkey is an important part of Chinese symbolism. Along with this there are other meanings of the monkey in Chinese culture to consider.
Zodiac
The monkey is the ninth year in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese Zodiac. Depending on the specific Year of the Monkey you were born in, the symbolism of the monkey changes depending on which Chinese element rules that particular year. The motto of the monkey is "I Entertain" and is roughly equivalent to the Western Zodiac symbol of Leo the lion. Characteristics of the monkey in the Chinese Zodiac include:
- Quick wit
- Luck
- Charm
- Versatility
- Intelligence
Monkey King
The Monkey King is an important figure in Chinese mythology. This is a monkey who acquired super powers due to careful and disciplined study and practice of Taoist principles. Chief among his powers are strength and speed, however he can also transform into 72 different forms. The Monkey King resembles the Hindu figure Hanuman from the Ramayana in some significant ways.
Choosing a Design
Once you have learned about the symbolism of the Chinese monkey, begin thinking about how you want to represent these qualities in your tattoo. The Japanese artist Yoshitoshi painted a very famous picture of the Monkey King for a Japanese novel. This beautiful and timeless representation of the Monkey King may be where your search for the right design begins and ends. However, you may choose to do something a bit more original and design your own tattoo or have it designed for you. Examples of what you may decide include:
- A standard monkey done in a Chinese flavor
- A monkey with the Chinese character for the word "monkey" on or near the monkey
- A monkey engaged in some form of play that attempts to show the qualities of this animal in the Chinese Zodiac
- A more irreverent theme, such as a monkey done in a Chinese artistic style sitting at a typewriter to evoke the "thousand monkeys in a room" paradox, as well as the entertaining, intelligent, creative and lucky features of the monkey.
Think carefully about what qualities you wish to portray, then begin thinking of scenarios and imagery that conveys those qualities.
Getting Tattooed
Choose an artist who is known for her aptitude at Asian-style designs. This will ensure you get a tattoo with some degree of authenticity. The artist may also be able to advise you about what symbols and symbolism to include in your tattoo. If you aren't from the Chinese culture or haven't studied it, don't be afraid to reach out for advice from friends and tattoo professionals when selecting the best design for your tattoo.
