Did you know that the earliest recorded evidence of tribal tattoos dates back to 5000 BCE? This means that we have been tattooing tribal patterns onto our bodies for at least seven thousand years!
In the last few years, this ancient practice has become a must-have luxury accessory in the Western world as millions of people have revived this art form. This modern renaissance of tribal tattoos has resulted in a few types of tribal tattoos becoming highly desirable and sought after.
Traditionally, every tribal tattoo had a deeply symbolic meaning. In some cultures, they were indicators of status and achievements. These tattoos were often associated with rituals like initiation and were thought to offer protection in battle.
Are you thinking about getting a new tribal tattoo and wondering about what the meaning is? This article looks at some of the classic tribal tattoo designs and explores their meaning and symbolism.
Tribal Wolf Tattoo
Wolves are powerful spirit animals to Native American Indians and symbolize the intelligence of spiritual pathfinders. Wolf tattoos represent loyalty, strength, and spiritual protection. Perfect for a meaningful tribal arm tattoo!
For some people, wolf tattoos symbolize a close family connection. This is due to the way wolves live in packs and help each other rear their pups. Wolves also mate for life and are extremely caring towards each other. It’s owing to these close bonds that wolf tattoos are associated with having a tight-knit family.
Tribal Lion Tattoo
The lion is the ultimate fearless apex predator and symbolizes courage, vitality, and bravery. As the king of the jungle, these animals are associated with royalty and being self-confident.
In some cultures, Lions represent guardians that provide spiritual protection. These beasts need a decent amount of skin, which makes them a good option for a striking tribal shoulder tattoo.
Tribal Dragon Tattoo
As a common traditional Japanese tattoo, dragons represent supernatural power and are used as protection for your family and home. In Asian culture, dragons are believed to bring happiness and ensure a long life.
There are six main types of Japanese dragons and each one has its own significance. Different color tattoo dragons also have their own symbolic meaning.
Black dragons are symbols of wisdom and old age. Green dragons represent the earth and life. Gold dragons are thought to be the most powerful and represent kindness and virtue.
Tribal Tiger Tattoo
Tiger tattoos are extremely popular among muay Thai fighters in Thailand as they symbolize strength and fearlessness. As one of the most common tribal tattoos for men, they are often done on the back so that you will always have them watching your back.
As a ferocious predator, the tiger is also a symbol of courage, power, and independence. It’s no surprise that Samurai warriors had tigers on their flag crests. Tiger tattoos are a powerful symbol that shows you are ready for anything that comes your way.
Aztec Tribal Tattoos
In the Aztec culture, tattoos had a variety of different meanings. Often they depicted the Aztec gods, and the powerful animals they believed gave them strength. Some of these tattoos were used to denote the rank and achievements of the Aztec warriors.
There are a large number of different Aztec designs and patterns that are popular meaningful tribal tattoos for men. Each one has its own unique meaning and symbolism. The Aztecs believed that their tattoos gave them strength and were a sign of worship.
Tribal Turtle Tattoo
These iconic creatures of the ocean are known as symbols of wisdom, perseverance, and determination. They are also associated with longevity and fertility as they can live for up to 80 years and lay hundreds of eggs at a time.
In recent times turtles have become symbols of the environmental movement and caring for the earth. Native Americans also associated turtles with the earth and believed they created the land by bringing mud up from the ocean floor on their backs.
Tribal Sun Tattoo
Sun symbols are found in every culture around the world, which is not surprising when you consider how all life depends on sunlight! The most common meaning behind sun designs is that of growth and renewal.
In some ancient cultures, the sun represents masculine cosmic power. This is similar to the Christian belief that the sun represents rebirth and life. The Celtic sun tattoo represents fertility and healing.
Tribal Skull Tattoo
For many people, skull tattoos show that you are not afraid of death. They can also be a way of honoring those who have already passed on and acknowledging the inevitability of death. In this way, they can symbolize the idea that we should enjoy life and live it to the fullest.
Skull tattoos are well known as the hallmark of a rebel and have remained popular over many generations, especially among outlaws. The iconic badass always seems to have a tribal skull-neck tattoo!
Tribal Rose Tattoo
A single rose is commonly associated with love, either lost or found, and passion. The intricate petals of a rose make them one of the best options for flower tattoos. With their oval shape, they are popular as tribal hand tattoos.
Roses have different symbolic meanings according to what color they are. Black roses usually symbolize the death of a loved one and are used to commemorate their life.
White roses are regarded as a symbol of innocence and purity. Yellow roses are used to show friendship and happiness. Blue roses represent things that are unobtainable.
Read also: Top Luxury Item for Men: Tattoos for Men Are the New Tux
Tribal Tattoos: The Ultimate Style Adornment
Tattoos have become the latest highly desirable luxury accessory. Well-regarded tattoo artists can charge thousands of dollars for each design and tattoo.
If you’re interested in high-end body adornment, you’ll love this collection of stylish ear-piercings too!
We’d love to hear what you think about tribal tattoos. Are they the new must-have luxury item? Please share your comments with us below and remember to subscribe to stay at the cutting edge of everything luxurious.
Featured image source: Unsplash.com
