Hi all,

Just after some opinions about keeping symbolism in tattoos.
I’m currently working on a full sleeve on my right arm and will have the third sitting (colour of the first piece) soon, but I am looking for help with the next section.

Part of the sleeve design will feature a ‘Fo dog’ or ‘Foo dog’ / Chinese Guardian Lion on the inner bicep (as part of an oriental theme the outer bicep / shoulder has a steampunk koi fish which will have traditional elements – see my album for current pics)

The question that I have:
The fo dog is usually found in a male / female pair, guarding gates or entrance ways, the pairing represents yin / yang.

The female is usually found on the left hand side if you are facing the gate / entrance.

In my situation that would mean the female fo dog should traditionally be on my right inner bicep and the male on the left, but I prefer the design and symbolism of the male fo dog.

(There is a tonne of information on the symbolism of both male and female fo dogs)

So do I keep the traditional and go with a female fo dog on the right inner bicep (then try and work the male into the left arm where I already have work) or just go with the male fo dog and don’t worry about the symbolism?

Thoughts please.