10 Popular Animal Tattoos and Their Meanings
Animal tattoos are immensely popular because of their symbolic significance. Each animal has its own characteristics, behaviours and traits that can be interpreted as metaphors for different aspects of human life and also reflect the values and beliefs of the wearer. This blog post will take you on an interesting journey into the fascinating world of animal tattoos. We will examine various popular animal tattoos and uncover the hidden meanings and messages behind them. Read on to discover more, and maybe get some inspiration for a new tattoo!
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For some people, panther tattoos represent power, strength, and courage. For others, they may be a symbol of protection or good luck. Many people see panthers as a symbol of strength, courage and protection. Panthers can be guardians, and their black fur is thought to ward off evil spirits. In some cultures, panthers have healing powers. Consequently, some people get panther tattoos to protect themselves from harm. |
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A lion tattoo is often seen as a symbol of bravery because of the animal's reputation as the 'king of the jungle'. Lions are known for their strength, courage and ferocity, and are considered one of the most fearsome predators in the animal kingdom. In many cultures, the lion has been associated with royalty and power, and has traditionally been used as a symbol of strength. The lion also has a strong sense of loyalty and protective instincts, making it a popular design in tattoos representing family and friends. |
Lion |
Wolf tattoos have a range of different meanings. For some, the wolf symbolises strength and bravery; for others, it represents wisdom and understanding. Whatever the specific meaning, a wolf tattoo is a tribute to the natural world and a reminder of our primal instincts. A solitary wolf could be a visual representation of the phrase 'a lone wolf', indicating the wearer is very independent. |
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The horse is a symbol of freedom, power and grace. For many, a horse tattoo symbolises the wild and untamed spirit within. In Indigenous American culture, the horse symbolises strength and endurance; to the Celts, it symbolises nobility and power. The horse is also a Chinese zodiac animal, and it is associated with independence, positivity and freedom. |
Collie dog from the Animal Reference Book for Tattoo Artists, Illustrators and Designers
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Dolphin|
A snake tattoo has many meanings. In many ancient cultures, snakes were revered as symbols of fertility, rebirth, and transformation. The shedding of a snake's skin was seen as a metaphor for personal growth and spiritual renewal, so some people choose snake tattoos as a representation of their own transformation. In some cultures, such as Ancient Greece, snakes were linked to deities or mythical creatures and were believed to have healing powers. In contemporary Western culture, snake tattoos are often associated with more edgy or rebellious themes and snakes are frequently depicted in tattoo art as beautiful but dangerous animals.
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Eagle from the Animal Reference Book for Tattoo Artists, Illustrators and Designers
An eagle tattoo can hold a plethora of symbolic meanings, as this majestic bird is revered in many cultures around the world. Generally, an eagle tattoo symbolises strength, bravery, courage, and freedom. Due to their natural habitat of living in the skies and having a bird's eye view of the world, eagles are associated with perspective and far-sightedness. Eagle tattoos may also be associated with specific cultures, such as Indigenous American culture where the eagle is revered because it can soar high into the heavens near the Creator. In Greek mythology, the eagle was associated with Zeus, the king of the gods, and was used to signify strength and power.
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The meaning behind an elephant tattoo varies across cultures and individual interpretations. In Hinduism, elephants are revered because of their link to Ganesh, a major deity with the head of an elephant who is responsible for removing obstacles and providing good fortune. Elephants are also known for their close-knit family structures and emotional intelligence, making an elephant tattoo a meaningful choice for someone who values family and interpersonal relationships. Additionally, the elephant's long lifespan and ability to remember significant events make it a symbol of longevity and memory.
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Owl from the Animal Reference Book for Tattoo Artists, Illustrators and Designers
| An owl tattoo can have several meanings and varies based on the individual's interpretation. In general, owls represent wisdom, knowledge, and intelligence. They are also known as mysterious creatures with the ability to see well in the dark. Therefore, an owl tattoo can symbolize the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and an inquisitive mind. In ancient Greek culture, owls were associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom, and were considered to be sacred. |
Interested in Learning More?
Introducing the Animal Reference Book for Tattoo Artists, Illustrators and Designers, available in physical and digital formats.
Are you a tattoo artist, graphic designer or illustrator looking for a comprehensive collection of animal imagery for drawing references or tattoo flash designs? Do you want over 600+ high-resolution downloadable images for graphics projects or digital collages? If so, this book is for you.
This pictorial archive is a unique collection of rare 18th and 19th-century engraving and etchings. We've curated and restored 627 beautiful high-resolution images of lions prowling, tigers fighting, pumas stalking, hyenas hunting, deer rucking, bats, snakes, bison, antelope, eagles, swallows, owls, elephants, hippopotamus, walruses, apes, monkeys, marsupials, rodents, octopus, bears, rabbits, giant anteaters plus an extensive collection of animal skeletons and so much more. We're confident this book has the animal reference material you need.
Image Download Included:
Each book comes with a unique download link providing instant access to high-resolution files of the 627 images featured. These images can be used for tattoo designs, art and design projects, or printed and framed to make beautiful decorative artworks for your home or studio. A complimentary download of the Vault Editions Skulls and Anatomy sample pack is also included.
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