There is a mythological creature from Japan known as a Kirin. It is known to have the body of a lion, scales like that of a fish, with deer antlers and hooves.
Some people believe it may be based on a giraffe that may have been brought to China after one of the emperors expeditions to Africa.
It is always seen as a harbinger of good luck or some kind of positive event that will happen, such as a period of abundance.
Kirin are also meant to have an abundance of rui, a Buddhist concept that can be roughly translated to “serenity” and “prosperity.” This is visualized usually by flames surrounding the creature.
It is quite a popular creature in Japanese and East Asian tattooing in general, and it makes for a great stand alone piece or as part of a larger piece of work like a sleeve or even back piece.
Edited by Harrison R.
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