18/7/2010 Tattoo Symbolism ( T-Z )Teardrop - These are a common prison style tattoo denoting 'served time' or the fact that the wearer may have killed a person.
Triple Seven - Usually depicted as a gaming machine where it symbolizes lucky fortune. Thunderbird - A mythical bird in the Native American tradition known for its power because of its ability to create thunder from its wings. Its most common appearance is with outstretched wings or in a Haida style from the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Tiger - Tigers are a common style of tattoo for many reasons commonly representing beauty and strength. Totem Pole - A carved block of wood representing ties to a Native Americans 'power animals' or spirit guides. They can be many variations of animals such as bird, bear, and coyote. They can also tell a story as well as be a protective symbol. Many males get totems tattooed on their arms even though they are not natives. Turtle - Turtles are known for their long life and slow and steady pace. They can also mean protection as the turtle uses his hard shell. Unicorn - A mythological creature which looks like a horse with a horn coming out of its forehead. It is often associated with fables and fairy tales because of its enchanting appearance. Vampires - Vampires appear to be quite common as tattoos maybe perhaps because they have long held a fascination for most people. Vikings - Vikings came from the Nordic countries of Norway, Sweden and Denmark mainly. They are known for the fierce fighting abilities but were also plunderers and pillagers. As a result there appearance would have struck fear into many. They are usually pictured as having long beards, pony tails, wearing round helmets with horns and carrying swords Virgin Mary - The Virgin Mary is most associated with Catholicism. As religious art, she is most expressed as being pure and a compassionate mother. She is usually depicted wearing flowing white or blue robes praying with a reflective or sad expression. Whale - Although as a tattoo the whale is not nearly as popular as the dolphin, but symbolically it is no less interesting. Whales have been associated with myths and legends from 'Jonah and the Whale' to myths of killer whales. They are also connected with the world of the unconscious mainly because they live in the deepest oceans which were associated with unconscious emotions and imagery. The sound of whales can be a beautiful and haunting experience and there is no doubt of mankind's fascination with these majestic creatures. Wolf - Wolves are a popular image in tattoo art. They are laden with symbolism and a recurring theme in many myths and fables. They are known for being pack hunters and have been known to adopt abandoned children. They are also linked with ancient mythology such as that of the Nordic and Native American traditions. Yin-Yang - Ancient Chinese symbol which represents the opposites contained in everything such as male/female, light/dark, and good/bad. In each is contained the seed of the other and one cannot exist without the other. 18/7/2010 Tattoo Symbolism ( Q-S )Queen - Not as popular a tattoo symbol as the king in a suit of cards. Although can represent the feminine energy but sometimes associated with gay men as in 'queens'.
Rabbit - Rabbits have many meanings from fertility to renewal. In Chinese astrology people born in The Year of the Rabbit are good communicators and ambitious. RIP - Rest in Peace is an epitaph on a grave. As a tattoo it is quite common either as a memory of a deceased person or in the fantasy style of tattoo art depicting grisly scenes. Rock of Ages - This symbolizes a woman clinging to a cross or headstone with a banner below with the inscription 'Rock of Ages'. She can either be seen on a rocky outcrop or amongst flowers as is meant on a scene of a shipwreck. As such, is a common tattoo amongst sailors and also as a religious tattoo. Rooster - Roosters have many associations in Chinese astrology and in Western beliefs. For instance sailors used to get tattoos of roosters as they were known to not be able to swim so would want to get back to the relative safety of dry ground. They have also been known to be proud and fighting birds. In Chinese they are considered to be intellectual, while Buddhists associate them with passion. Rose - Roses are probably the quintessential flower in the West and a VERY popular form of tattoo. Red roses can mean love, romantic love, and respect. White roses signify spiritual love, purity, innocence or secrecy. Bridal white means happy love. Yellow roses signify joy, gladness, friendship and devotion. Coral roses imply desire. Light peach roses signify modesty or friendship Orange roses say fascination. Light pink roses imply grace, gentility and admiration. Dark pink roses say "thank you." Red and yellow roses mixed together can mean congratulations Yellow and orange roses together imply passionate thoughts. Red and white roses signify unity Sacred Heart - The Sacred Heart is one of the most popular forms of tattoos. It is representative of Jesus' heart and his divine love for all things. There are many variations of this symbol, some depicting the flames of passion and others still being depicted realistically almost like a real heart. Sailors - Once common tattoos amongst Navy men. Usually depicted wearing the white sailor uniform and cap. Sailor Girl - Classic pin up style tattoo. Wearing a sailors uniform but with a low cut top showing an ample bosom. Sailor's Grave - Old school tattoo done to remember fellow Navy men lost in battle at sea. It is depicted as an anchor or 'lifesaver' being held by an American Bald Eagle with a banner inscribed 'Sailor's Grave'. Samurai - Ancient Japanese warriors known for their discipline and swordsmanship. They were also noted for their honor choosing to commit suicide instead of submitting. It is a popular form of tattoo in the Japanese tradition and can be part of a full 'suit' covering the entire body depicting war scenes. Scorpion - The scorpion is a deadly creature and can kill a human being very quickly. It is associated with revenge because of its nature. Even still it is a very popular form of tattoo even amongst those not born under its astrological sign. Sea Horse - The Sea Horse is a very unusual looking sea creature that has many associations. As a tattoo it can mean numerous things from the strength of the horse and ruler of the sea. Shamrock - This small clover like plant is associated with the Celtic people of Ireland where it was believed to be a sacred plant. St Patrick adopted it to denote the 'Holy Trinity' of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Many wearer use shamrock tattoo as a lucky charm. Skull - The skull is a recurrent theme in tattoos mainly because of its unique appearance. Skulls as tattoos can take many variations and meanings, the most common being “reborn or new beginning.” Snake - Snakes are a recurring form of tattoo in may different styles from modern American tattoos to Chinese style tattoos. It is associated with renewal because of the snakes ability to shed its skin. The snake was also associated with knowledge and temptation in the Christian tradition. There are many different styles of snakes and can be depicted on their own, coiled around a sword or dagger (which is a medical symbol) or emerging from a skull. Spider Web - In USA this is a tattoo that can symbolize a prison term. They are tattooed on the elbows and can also mean that the person sporting it has killed someone. Spirals - This is a Celtic symbol found on the ancient burial tombs of the Celts in Ireland. They are thought to represent the three realms in the celtic belief system of the underworld, overworld and the world. Star - The star is depicted in many different forms such as shooting star tattoos. They can also have many different meanings associated with them. A lot of people seem to be getting them because they express their inner desire to be a star. Shooting star tattoos can also symbolize a brief fleeting moment in ones life just like the brief wonder of seeing a shooting star race across the night sky. They can also be a symbol of reaching ones ultimate destiny. Sun - The sun is a powerful symbol common amongst all cultures. It is rich in meaning and symbolism and is most commonly acknowledged as the 'giver of life' without which, all things would perish. As a tattoo it can be depicted in many different forms, from the sun with flames around it to a tribal style of Haida depiction with human-like face. Sun and Moon - It can mean the interplay of opposites as in male and female, hot and cold, Yin and Yang. Both the sun and moon nourish us in different ways. Sunflowers - Sunflowers are a common tattoo because of their striking appearance and bright yellow color. Many regard the sunflower as a happy tattoo. Swallow - Swallows have always been a favorite tattoo amongst sailors because of their association with good luck, freedom and homecoming. Sword - The sword has many connotations such as justice and virtue, but also danger. They have magical powers and often appear in myths and legends. 18/7/2010 Tattoo Symbolism ( M-P)Madonna and Child - This is a more traditional variation on the Madonna theme. In this depiction Mary, Mother of God is seen holding baby Jesus.
Male Symbol - This is depicted as a circle with a cross pointing upwards. Maltese Cross - This cross originated in the Malta Supreme Military Hospital. It is an eight pointed cross with each point symbolizing the qualities of a knight. The cross is also used by the Order of Knights Templar. Mandala - A mandala literally means circle in Sanskrit. It is a common symbol in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions. It can take on a myriad of forms and variations and is a symbol of contemplation. Man's Ruin - Man's ruin is depicted as a lady sitting in a glass with cards in the background, money and dice. It is these four things, alcohol, loose women, money and gambling that can lead to man's ruin. It has always been a popular tattoo choice and because of its classic appearance shows no sign of ever fading in popularity. Measure of Man - This is a well known painting by Leonardo De Vinci. It is a depiction of a nude man in a large circle and rectangle showing the reach of outstretched arms and legs in two different positions. It was used in a space probe sent out years ago so that if extra terrestrials discovered it would understand the basic physical structure on mankind. Medicine Shield - This is a Native American shield which is circular in shape with feathers attached and is used for protection. Medusa - Medusa is depicted as a lady with piercing eyes and snakes for hair. In myths she could turn a man to stone with one look. She is a character that strikes fear into many. Mermaids - The mermaid is half fish and half female. In mythology, the mermaid would either lure men to their death by drowning or would conversely rescue men from the same fate. As tattoos they can be symbols of temptation or depicted almost as pin up girls. Mickey Mouse - This is the quintessential Disney character and as such a popular tattoo choice for those who want to retain links to happy childhood memories. Moon - This is our closest heavenly neighbor and is often associated with the feminine aspect or nature. It can symbolize change and it is responsible for the movement of the tides and also linked to the female monthly cycle. It can take on many forms such as the crescent moon, harvest moon, killing moon or blue moon with individual meanings associated with each. Motorcycles - The image of the motorcycle will probably never lose its appeal. Motorcycle tattoos, once the preserve of biker gangs, now seem to be requested by those not necessarily considered 'bikers'. As tattoos, there are many different varieties from the 'Hot Rod'; with a scantily clad girl on top, to the Harley Davidson ridden by a skeleton even Lambretta scooters and every other type of bike in between. Musical Notes - These can take on any variation of a musical note. As tattoos they are usually done by people who are musicians or who have a deep love of music. Nautical Star - The nautical star is a common style of tattoo even though its meanings and origins are unclear. It is a five pointed star with one half of each point in shade. It can mean a 'lucky return'. Niho Mano - This is a Hawaiian symbol shown as opposing lines of pyramids that takes on the appearance of teeth of a shark. It is traditionally worn by males as an armband. Nuclear Radiation - This is an internationally recognized symbol warning of the danger of nuclear radioactivity. Its use of a tattoo can mean serve as a 'warning' to others not to get to close. Octopus - Octopus can be depicted as fearful or as a passive almost feminine creature. As such it is more common for women than men to get tattooed with an octopus. Omega - This is the last symbol in the Greek alphabet but can also mean 'the end of all things'. Oni - This is a horned devil in Japanese tradition and a popular style of tattoo. Orchid - Orchids are a popular choice of floral tattoo mainly because of its beauty and its rich associations. Osiris - King of ancient Egypt and often depicted as a mummy holding a staff. He was the god of fertility but also linked with the afterlife. Owl - Owls are a popular choice of bird tattoo because of their hypnotic eyes and wisdom. Padlock - This is a perennial style of tattoo that has never really faded. It is usually depicted with hearts and is meant to suggest that only one person can unlock the wearer's heart or there is only one true love. Panther - Panthers are fierce creatures and as such are worn by people who like to portray an image of strength and courage. Parrot - Parrots have always held a special place with people because of their bright colors, intelligence and ability to speak in some cases. As tattoos they have always been popular because of their vivid colors. Pegasus - This is a legendary Greek creature shown as a white horse with wings. It has many associations with agility and the spirit world. Pentagram - This is a five pointed star which has connections with magic and witchcraft. It is used as a form of protection by those who practice the craft and in its inverted form is a symbol of evil. Phoenix - A mythological bird that is rich in meaning in quite a few different cultures. It is most known for its ability to rise from the ashes, and is a symbol of death and rebirth into immortality. Pierced Heart - A quintessential symbol of being in love. Shot from the arrow of Cupid it can suggest penetration and physical love too. Pirate Ship - This is a ship flying the black flag with skull and crossbones. It is a common tattoo in the old and new school varieties because of its bold outlines. Playboy Bunny - The well known logo of Playboy magazine has been adopted by many who have probably never even read Playboy. It symbolizes the eroticism. Popeye - Popeye is the famous sailor cartoon character which has been around since the late 1920's. Popeye has come to be a popular tattoo ever since, because of his associate with strength, fighting and saving Olive Oyl. Praying Hands - This is a well known image in Christianity as it associates with communication with God. Pyramids - One of the wonders of the world build by the ancient Egyptians. They have become popular as tattoos for their link with ancient wisdom and connection with the past. 18/7/2010 Tattoo Symbolism ( J-L )Jaguar - Jaguars have long been associated with otherworldly powers by ancient cultures in Central America. The Americans Indians regarded them as 'power animals' or having shamanistic qualities.
Jesus- As the founder of Christianity, is a popular choice of tattoo for those who want to express their devotion. There are many depictions of Jesus ranging from the image of Jesus wearing a crown of thorns or on a cross. Then there is the brightly colored new school variety of tattoo that depicts Jesus as an icon of popular culture. Joker - The Joker is associated with playing cards and is related to 'The Fool' in tarot cards. As a playing card they usually have special powers and can be used in play or not as in 'Jokers wild'. Even though the Joker is seen as someone foolish they are also quite intelligent. King of Hearts - The King of Hearts is the highest card in a 52 card deck. As a tattoo it can be done to express good luck but can also be associated with love. Kintaro - Kintaro is a legendary Japanese hero imbued with great strength. Often Kintaro is seen wrestling with a Koi or Japanese Carp. In Japanese tattoos, Kintaro is a popular tattoo as it depicts the warrior aspect. Knot work - Knot work or Celtic Knot work was developed by the Celtic people of Ireland and Northern Europe. It is to be seen in many ancient Irish manuscripts such as the Book of Kells, on display in Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. Symbolically it can represent the eternal and intertwined nature of the human soul. It is a popular form of tattoo especially as an armband. Koi - Also known as Japanese Carp. In Japanese tattooing it is one of the most discernible and popular styles. It has many meanings as is it known for its ability to climb waterfalls and as such symbolizes courage over adversity. Lady Luck - Most commonly associated with gambling because of the depiction of a scantily clad lady with dice, cards and sometimes a horse-shoe. Lesbian Love - This is two female symbols interlocked. The symbol for female is a circle with a cross pointing downwards. Lighthouse - A welcome sight for seafarers and has come to mean safety and protection. The light in the lighthouse can also mean guidance giving direction to those off course. Lily - Lilies are known for purity and chastity and are also associated with death being a common flower at funerals. Lion - Lions are the 'king of the jungle' and project strength. They are sometimes depicted in their natural state or in emblems and national motifs. Lion with Sword - This is a Middle Eastern symbol for royalty and power and is a popular tattoo choice. Lizard - Lizards are a popular tattoo choice in the Hawaiian and Polynesian tradition. They can be depicted like the gecko or as more in a tribal style of tattoo. Lotus - Lotus flowers alongside roses are probably the flower with the most meaning associated with it. In many belief systems they express spiritual purity mainly because they are so beautiful and can grow in the murkiest of water. Love and Hate - These are usually spelled out on the tops of each finger so that they are visible when a fist is made. As tattoos they are usually associated with 'common types' and criminals. 18/7/2010 Tattoo Symbolism ( H-I )Halo - A symbol of enlightened or saintly beings. Depicted as a ring of light around the person's head or surrounding the entire person. As tattoos the halo can adorn any symbol such as a crown or sacred heart but it is also used on top of a portrait of a person or pet that has deceased thus suggesting that they are still with them in spirit.
Hammer and Sickle - A symbol of Russian communists. It can be depicted as black work or against the backdrop of a red flag. Like the symbol of Che Guevara it has been adopted by westerners with no interest in communist ideology although many American tattoo artists will refuse to tattoo the Hammer and Sickle for patriotic reasons. Han - Otherwise known as the hand chop. It is a signature seal carved onto a block of wood serving as a stamp or seal. It is a popular form of tattoo in the Japanese and Chinese tradition. Harley Davidson - The Harley Davidson motorcycle has become an icon of American freedom. They are a hugely popular design among Harley riders the world over. It can be depicted as the Harley Davidson logo on its own or complete with an American Eagle and flag in the background. Harp - Harps are usually associated with the Irish. Before the changeover to EU currency it was displayed on all Irish coins and is used by the Irish Government as an official seal. It is a common tattoo amongst those of Irish extraction as a symbol or resistance and national pride. It is also a lucky tattoo to many. Heart - As a tattoo it is associated with the bio-mechanical form of tattoos. It is usually placed in the actual spot where the real heart is. It is also popular amongst people who have been through heart operations to remind them of their successful heart surgery and recovery. Heart Symbol - Possible one of the most popular form of tattoos. The symbol of the heart is etched deeply in the human psyche across nearly all cultures. It can appear in many different forms such as the Sacred Heart or the Pierced Heart. In old school tattoos it is sometimes shown with a banner going across with a persons name written on it. In the new school tradition of tattooing it can be represented with a crown above it or surrounded by flames. Heart with Dagger - This is an old school form of tattoo common amongst servicemen but has become popular once again. It can symbolize hurt in love and also jealousy. Heart with Flames - This is a form of tattoo that can express passion for a particular person. Fire has long been associated with lust and passion and the heart is a symbol of love. Hobbits - Popular tattoos in the fantasy tattoo tradition. They are small human-like beings that live in 'Middle Earth' from the epic tale 'The Lord of the Rings' created by J.R.R. Tolkien. Homeward Bound - A popular maritime tattoo in the old school tradition. It is usually depicted as a clipper ship with full sails with a banner which displays 'homeward bound' although sometimes it can depict an anchor. Horse - Horses can mean many different things such as strength, sexuality, desire and also nobility. In history, people mounted on horses are seen as being powerful. Horseshoe - This is a well known symbol of good luck and has been adopted by the neo traditional school of tattoos. The idea was that the horseshoe pointing upwards protected the house and kept all the good luck in. Horus - An Egyptian symbol depicted as a falcon headed god. In the myth Horus' eye was ripped out but was reconstructed. Hula Girl - A once popular form of tattoo amongst sailors, it usually meant that the sailor had been to Hawaii. The Hula Girl is depicted as a pin up style girl wearing the traditional Hawaiian hula skirt and garland. Icarus - Icarus was a Greek god who flew too close to the sun. He had wax wings which melted causing him to fall into the sea and drown. He is seen to represent the impetuous and uncontrolled nature of youth. Iguana - Iguanas are brightly colored lizards and as a result look great as tattoos. They can be tattooed to full size on the back or smaller on the calf of a leg or shoulder. Iguanas were considered to be sacred animals by the Mayan. Infinity - The infinity symbol looks like a number eight lying on its side as is an ancient Arabic symbol. Many people get this as a tattoo to represent the eternal nature of the soul. In Memoriam - These are constant reminders of a deceased person that are popular tattoos for those who want to remember loved ones who have passed on. They are usually tattooed with a portrait of the person who has passed. Isis - Is an ancient Egyptian goddess and a popular choice for a tattoo. She is generally shown holding a staff to represent her control. 18/7/2010 Tattoo Symbolism ( D-G )Dagger - Can represent protection, danger or betrayal.
Daisy - Can represent youth and rebirth or carefree. Death before Dishonor - The phrase 'Death before Dishonor' is usually depicted as a scroll wrapped around a dagger being held by an eagle. It is a popular military tattoo. Devil - It can be depicted in a scary entity to a playful cartoon depiction. The devil has many different meanings and is associated with evil but it can also be associated with desire and lust. Devil Girl - A popular form of pin up girl which can represent lust and temptation. Dice - Dice tattoos are representative of an uncertain outcome. Normally are worn by people who like to take risks. Dogs - As mans best friend they represent loyalty and faithfulness. They are mostly tattooed as memorials of pet dogs that have passed away and as such are a popular form of portrait. Dolphins - Dolphins are perceived to be one of the most intelligent of all mammals and have a close connection with humans. Humans have long associated them with symbols of spirituality and the divine. Dragonfly - Are thought be associated with good luck. Dream catchers - Dream catchers were used by Native Americans to ward off bad spirits in dreams. The idea was that they would catch bad dreams in the web like circle and only allow good dreams through a small hole in the centre. The feather on the dream catcher was for added protection from spirit guides in the form of certain birds. Eagle - The eagle is one of the most powerful and majestic birds. As a tattoo eagles can have many different meanings from strength to national pride. Eight ball - The eight ball is the last ball in a game of pool or billiards. It can mean bad luck as in "behind the eight ball" and is also associated with some of the seamier sides of life. Eye of Horus - This is an ancient Egyptian symbol and is used as protection. Fairy - Fairies represent the link with the magical realms. They are imbued with certain powers to make wishes come true. Falcon - The falcon has long being admired not just for its beauty but also for its strength. It is been associated with meta-physical powers by ancient peoples. Fan - Fans were carried by men and women in the east and were also an expression of individuality because of their ornate and unique designs. They were used to wave away bad spirits but they are mostly associated with Geisha Girls. Fish - In some cultures they are associated with fertility but can also be associated with wisdom as in the celtic 'salmon of wisdom'. Flags - Flags are used to identify with a group or nation. They can mean national pride. Flames - Fire is all consuming and can mean purification and renewal in beliefs. Frog - Frogs have always been associated with the magical realm popularized by the Princess kissing a frog and turning him into a Prince. Gargoyles - Gargoyles are architectural features found on gothic style buildings. They were originally intended as spouts for run off of rain from roofs. Usually depicted as scary looking creatures which scare away evil spirits. Gecko - Symbolize re-growth and luck as a lizard whose tail grows back if pulled off. Griffin - A mythical beast which is a cross between an eagle and a lion. Its head is an eagle and lower body that of a lion. It was used by Christians to symbolize the dual nature of Christ. Grim Reaper - Is an impending figure depicted as a hooded skeleton carrying a scythe. The scythe is used to 'harvest' human souls. To remind the wearer that any moment could be his or her last. 18/7/2010 Tattoo Symbolism ( A-C )All-Seeing Eye - The all-seeing eye is depicted as an eye surrounded by beams of light. Found in a number of different cultures. It can symbolize the third eye, extra sensory perception or spiritual insight. It’s also a symbol used to ward off evil spirits in other cultures.
Amulet - An amulet is a form of Talisman used to protect the wearer from harm whether physical or psychic. It is comes in many different forms depending on the culture. For example Egyptian amulets were represented by a scarab and in Europe a rabbit leg was carried for protection. Many people get amulets tattooed because of the permanence and constant closeness of the amulet. Angels - Angels manifest in practically all cultures in some form or other and represent higher beings beyond the physicality of the material world. They are usually depicted as guardians, guides, protectors and intermediaries between this world and the higher dimensions. Aztec Sun - The Aztecs believed that four suns were created in four different eras. The sun was believed to be the giver and taker of life and the Aztecs frequently sacrificed people to the gods of these four suns. Barbed Wire - Also known as barbwire and was created to mark territory in the 1800's. It has come to symbolize more than the control of land and because of its use in prisons and such places has come to be associated with confinement. Bat - The bat is generally seen as a negative symbol in the West but has the opposite meaning in the East where it is associated with good luck. Bees - Bees can symbolize being industrious and working with a 'hive' mentality. The appearance can also mean being stung! Birds - Symbolically birds have had many positive associations and can mean many things such as freedom, peace, longevity and spirituality. E.g. Swallows, doves and eagles. Black Rose - This tattoo can represent sadness, tragedy and struggle. Black Widow - The black widow can represent the female aspect as the female is known for eating the male after mating. Bombs - The bomb with fuse attached has become a new school tattoo symbol and can mean impending danger & aggression. Born to Ride - This is a popular biker tattoo worn by biker gang members and can be written above or below other biker symbols such as motorcycle logos or skulls. Bulldog - This is a symbol that has been adopted by members of the US Marine Corp and goes back to World War 1. British Bulldog - This is an image of a bulldog wearing a waistcoat and sporting a bowler hat, sometimes also shown smoking a cigar. In England it has become synonymous with extreme nationalism. Butterfly - This is one of the most popular tattoos worn by women. Butterfly tattoos can mean several things such as beauty, metamorphosis, freedom, happiness and fragility. Many cultures have associated the butterfly with the soul. Cards - Playing cards are a popular tattoo design that mean good luck and fate. They can be depicted as an Ace of Clubs or a King of Hearts. Celtic Cross - Also known as the 'Wheel Cross' and owes it roots to early Christianity in Ireland. It has been adopted Chains - Mostly worn by those who have been to prison in Europe. But they can also depict freedom if they are depicted as broken. Cherries - Cherry tattoos are a very popular tattoo design among females. There is something very feminine about cherry tattoos that has a certain allure and oozes sexuality and desire. This style of tattoo is done in a bright bold style. Even though a cherry is a widely used slang term for a woman's hymen. A cherry can also be a slang term for a virgin. In the West If you see cherries in your dream it can symbolize honesty and truthfulness or sweetness and good fortune. To see a cherry tree in your dream can represent luck, spring, femininity, and youth. Cherubs - Although originally from Middle Eastern culture, they have been adopted by Westerners. They are usually depicted as children on clouds and can mean protection. Chinese Dragon - For centuries, the Chinese dragon has been a symbol of power and mystery. The dragon has provoked man to fear and worship it. In medieval Europe, it was a bloodthirsty, fire-breathing figure. Its malevolence and ferociousness struck terror in all. However, in Asia, it is the contrary. The mighty dragon is a mythical beast long celebrated for its benevolence, intelligence and good will. The Chinese dragon has been a common symbol of identity for Far Eastern cultures. In fact, Chinese people all over the world are affectionately known as 'lung de chuan ren', or the "descendants of the dragon". There are several distinct species of Chinese dragons. The Horned Dragon is considered to be the mightiest. The Celestial Dragon supports the heavens and protects the Gods. The Earth Dragon rules all of the earth. The Spiritual Dragon controls the wind and rain. The Treasure Dragon is the keeper of precious metals and gems. The Yellow Dragon is a hornless dragon known for its scholarly knowledge Chrysanthemum - These are very popular in the Japanese style of tattoos. They were originally associated with royalty, holy and can symbolize determination. Clover - Otherwise known as four leaf clover or sometimes shamrock. The four leaf clover is very rare and is thus seen as a form of luck. In USA it has also been adopted by White Nationalists and Aryans as their logo. Cobras - This is a common tattoo and can mean a 'charmer'. Snakes have also been associated with youth. Comedy and Tragedy - Derived from Greek theater, depicted as a smiling mask alongside a sad mask.. Compass - A popular tattoo with 'travellers' and can mean guidance. Cow Skull - This is a popular form of tattoo in the Native American tradition. It can remind those living of the impermanence of life. Crossed Swords - These are associated with death and hearkens. They are associated with sailor style tattoos. Crucifixion - Worn obviously by those of the Christian faith. Usually symbolize devotion and sacrifice. Cupid - The god of love and is depicted as a naked winged boy with a bow and arrow being shot through a heart. It’s a positive symbol associated with love, being in love or yearning. |
Tattoo Symbolism
Here are the meaning and symbolism of many common tattoo motifs used all over the world. But please note that the meaning and symbolism of tattoo motifs will change over time and it may not be the same in different countries, cultures etc. Everybody is highly advise to double confirm the meaning and symbolism of their tattoo motifs with other reference materials before getting them tattooed.
FAMILIAR STRANGERS Tattoo Studio (Singapore)
Walk-in Consultation & Tattooing :
Monday - Saturday at 3pm -8pm. Shop Address : 20 Upper Circular Road, The Riverwalk, #01-10, Singapore 058416. (Next To Clarke Quay MRT, NE5) SMS / Whatsapp : +65 97604147 CategoriesAll Symbolism (A To C) Symbolism (D To G) Symbolism (H To I ) Symbolism (J To L) Symbolism (M To P) Symbolism (Q To S) Symbolism (T To Z) |