The meaning of the Skull tattoo: historical background and today

Skull tattoos are some of the most popular. This idea not only looks very spectacular, but also has an original meaning. However, because of such popularity, they become trivial, so many people are looking for interesting options. For example, the special meaning of the tattoo skull and rose.

The rose is a symbol of beauty, while the skull is associated with death. Such a combination is very contrasting and causes contradictory emotions. The skull as a symbol of ancient times was present in cultures around the world. The symbol of the skull is associated with beauty and death, but it is a contradiction in terms of emotions. It was believed that the sight of the skull would evoke intimidating associations and no one would "break in". That is why they often "decorated" flags or hung it directly on the fence. Symbolically, the skull served as a protective amulet. So will his image on the skin in the form of a tattoo.

The meaning of the tattoo skull and rose will be a few more multifaceted and interesting. It will add a certain gothic romance to the composition, a special atmosphere. Many people have a less negative attitude toward death. They understand that it is just a part of the cycle of life. By denying it, we deny life itself. The bright, beautiful, saturated color of the rose in this composition will represent life itself - beautiful and saturated. Because together they will symbolize the cycle of life, the union of death and life into one essence of existence.

At the same time, the rose and the skull can represent the duality of human nature, which can be both gentle and harsh. Kind and angry, sweet and even aggressive. Such an idea will choose a difficult person who is always looking for answers.

Despite the very romantic symbolism of this image, to put it on your skin can only be a brave person, because many would prefer to bypass such, shrouded in prejudice, the image of the skull. However, nowadays, young people are increasingly brave to the symbols on the skin. Therefore, the skull with a rose is applied, and men and girls. Stylistics for this image choose the most different. It can be a graphical black and white image of small size, or solid color realistic image. An experienced tattoo artist will help you come up with an interesting stylization and a good place on the skin. The rose can lie under the skull, grow out of it, or wrap around it. There can also be several roses.

You can find an interesting variant of the sketch in our catalog of tattoos with skulls and skeletons.

Skull tattoos have not lost their popularity for many generations. Their meaning is often associated with death and despondency, but skulls have another, more positive meaning.

The meaning of the skull tattoo with a rose

In today's world, in a time of the developed and still developing cult of tattoos, many would not mind getting something really worthwhile. But, unfortunately, it so happens that a large number of people, applying any image on their body, do it purely because of the outwardly pretty picture.

Among all the variety of tattoo images today, you can find a skull with a rose. This somewhat surprising drawing attracts with contrast and mixed feelings. After all, the rose is a universal symbol of beauty, and the image of the skull leads to dangerous and frightening associations.

In today's salons you can see a variety of photos of the skull tattoo with a rose, different variations and colors of which determine the style of the image.

The attitude to the skull is peculiar - some peoples saw it only as a reflection of death and oblivion, others, on the contrary, used the skeleton head as a talisman against evil spirits. Pirates portrayed "Jolly Roger" on flags to intimidate enemies, their flag symbolized destruction and freedom. And the Celtic tribes cherished the skulls of the dead, believing that they are inhabited by the souls of ancestors. For many peoples skull was a reminder of death and transition to the eternal world, which also provided this symbol of reverence.

Today, the tattoo of the skull is not so reverent emotions, and increasingly common to see a tattoo of a skeleton head not only fans of the dark cults, but also in the carefree glamorous girls. Representatives of the weaker sex often apply a skull tattoo with a rose on the back, on the back of the hand or on the shoulder. The meaning of the tattoo skull with a rose Depends on the overall composition. For example, the head of a skeleton wrapped in a rose or depicted with a nearby flower symbolizes loss, death of a loved one. Often there are names in such drawings.

Sketches

Looking for a simple sketch of a skull tattoo? We picked up 15 in our opinion simple pictures for tattoos in .PNG format (with transparent background in good quality). The image can be downloaded and printed.


PNG Sketch: Men's tattoo skulls


Small skulls


Skull tattoo sketch


Skull tattoo sketch


Skull tattoo sketch


Skull tattoo sketch


Sketch on a transparent background: Skull tattoo with flowers


Sketch of tattoo on transparent background: Skull with flowers


Sketch: Skull tattoo with flowers on transparent background


Sketch: Tattoo Skull with Rose


Photo: Tattoo of skulls


Sketch on transparent background: Skull tattoo with crown


Sketch: Skull tattoo on transparent background (.png)

Meaning of skull tattoo with a rose in its teeth

The symbol of a skull with a rose in its teeth is a symbol of carelessness. This symbol speaks of the owner's carefree spirit, predisposition to drive and courage. Sometimes such a drawing is surrounded by abstract additions or wings, a halo. This tattoo has no specific meaning, it simply demonstrates the imagination and individuality of the owner and adorns the body with unusual and eye-catching images.

Young people also apply the skull with a rose, but tend to pick up a more brutal or threatening version. For example, a skull with gloomy empty eye sockets wrapped around a rose bush; an image where the skull and roses are small elements of a complex composition.

Also, sometimes the skull with a rose is found in prison symbolism, but The prison meaning of the skull and rose tattoo Are defined separately. That is, the skull means aggression, fearlessness before death and cruelty, while the rose in most cases indicates that the owner of the tattoo met adulthood in the colony.

Still, there is no single definition of the skull tattoo with a rose, so each fan of this figure can independently determine the meaning of his tattoo.

Finally, it should be said that there are 2 types of such tattoos, the meaning of which contradict each other. A plucked rose in the teeth and an enveloping rose or a rose bush wrapped around the skull, which grows naturally, are completely opposite symbols.

General Information

The skull is a human bone, and for many, of course, it is associated with death. And this is in fact true, but in different cultures the end of mundane life is regarded differently. So, quite a few practices that involve the transition of the human soul after his death in another state, another world or another substance.

That is, death can be deciphered not only as the end, but also as a rebirth, the beginning of something new and unexplored. And it is these views that have determined the modern interpretations of tattoos with the image of the skull.

The meaning of the skull tattoo with a rose and other elements

The intimidating symbol with a flower also has different interpretations, depending on where the plant is located. Tattoo skull with a rose - the unity of opposites: love, the flower of life and death, the end of all living things.

If the plant is wrapped around the bones or lies down, it means the wearer has lost a loved one. If the flower is in the teeth, it is a symbol of carelessness, the desire to live at one's pleasure, in courage and drive. Sometimes such a composition is complemented by wings or a halo. In the criminal world, a worn picture of a rose means that the person met his 16 years in prison. A tattoo of a skull with a crown pecked on the chest is a desire for power, but Mexicans interpret otherwise: in the next life will be luckier.

If a snake crawls out of the eye socket of the skull, it's a symbol of wisdom and immortality. Life is short and it is not worth wasting it, and the experience gained will remain on earth.

Goat skull means courage, an abundance of vitality, goodness and peace. The skull with bones, which was applied to the pirates' flag, symbolizes destruction, but along with fire - courage and hatred. Pirate sign for the stronger half - freedom and resilience to various twists of fate, a sense of invincibility.

Tattoo of a raven on the skull represents destruction and death, but the meaning of the bird is also ambiguous. If it is depicted near the nest or in light plumage - it is a sign of wisdom, longevity and family happiness.

The meaning of the skull depends on its attractiveness: with a good-natured outline - happiness and success, with a sullen and angry - hatred and ruin.

Where can I get my skull tattooed?

The meaning of the skull does not change from its location on the body, such as the crown. However, it is worth well to think: whether you need to hide the tattoo from prying eyes or to put on display to all. It should take into account the activities and attitudes of your environment, because in the business sector skull on the hand or neck alarming and scary.

Mostly stuffed skull tattoo on the shoulder, but for large compositions with animals, flowers or various symbols is best suited back. It is very convenient to apply a dense pattern. Skull oblong shape with curly flowers and plants, more suitable for girls. Popular places for such a picture are the foot, shin or hand.

Men's area for natal drawings is considered ribs, abdomen, face, the area behind the ears, some parts of the back. Girls get a skull tattoo on the leg or scapula, back, chest area, on any part of the arm. Multicolored compositions with intricate patterns on the hip or shin look spectacular. Pink and pearl shades give the girl femininity, uniqueness and softness. Black and red colors imply passion and sadness.

If a girl wears clothes with a frank neckline, a skull with symmetrical flowers or wings will look very attractive, will create a mysterious image. Skull tattoos on the arm and thigh with bright colors, ornaments and curly plants will look more effective than on the back or back of the head.

Choosing a pattern, it is better to apply a temporary composition to the body. This way you will make sure: whether it does not spoil your image, how spectacular it looks and how it looks while moving.

For men

The semantic message of the image of the skull is universal, it can be applied to both guys and women. The differences lie in what area of the skin the tattoo is applied to and who the wearer is. Guys usually put a sketch of a fiery or dark skull on their bodies.

It is not uncommon for men to paint themselves with a picture of crossed bones. It is a sign of pirates. In the past, such pictures were painted on the skin of only those who made it a trade in banditry and robbery. Gradually the semantic message of this picture has changed to a connection with death.

The common meaning of the tattoo skull for men - corruptible and mortal life. Guys who scored this sketch may have encountered death. Probably, the experiences associated with the mortality of a man and prompted the man to put a skull tattoo on his arm.

In some cases, the sketch indicates that the person sacrificed something for the sake of others. Sometimes the image is created by representatives of subcultures, youth movements. For them, the skull tattoo on the hand indicates that the person is open to the world, worships death.

The meaning of skull tattoos

The skull tattoo carries not only negative meaning, as many people mistakenly believe. These tattoos have many meanings, which can represent both positive and negative qualities. Some may signify evil and darkness, while others represent strength and protection.

In some cultures, skull tattoos are associated with crime and prison, while in others they have been used as a talisman, such as for bikers, to protect them from the dangers of death. Consider below what skull tattoos mean for guys and girls.

Death. The most common and widely known meaning of a tattoo is death. In this case, tattoos can be used as a memorial to symbolize the memory of a loved one.

Promptness. The meaning of the skull suggests that every life in this world is temporary. This is the main reason to value your life and make the most of it.

Intelligence. Some peoples believe that skull tattoos are elite symbols that symbolize a person's higher consciousness.

Power. Many are afraid of the images of this symbol, so to wear a tattoo with a skull on his body will decide only the strong and brave people.

Fear. If you want to warn others that you are an aggressive person who can defend his interests, then the application of the skull tattoo is definitely the best choice for you.

Protection. Many people believe that the skull tattoo is a protective amulet. For this reason, fearless bikers often use this symbol in their paraphernalia.

Alterations. Also, tattoos can be used to represent positive changes in a person's life or their altered past. Tattoos can show that a person has left their bad qualities or deeds in the past. For example, a drug addict may wear a tattoo to show that he has gone through rehabilitation, overcome his addiction, and is now living positively and sober.

In places of incarceration

Completely different semantic messages have tattoos, which are stabbed by convicts. What does the skull tattoo in the zone mean? The meaning of such a picture is that the prisoner is an authoritative thief, controls other sitters. If the head of the skeleton is pierced with a sword, it indicates that the bearer has devoted his life to the "war" with the police.

When it comes to women's prisons, they associate such a sketch with a wise person who has passed many tests. Usually, women prisoners stuff them up after going through turmoil. They give preference to pictures with a skeletal head, where a viper crawls out of the eye socket.

Skull tattoos on the face are rare, even in prisons. If you see a former prisoner with such a tattoo, you can be sure that he is a violent person who was a member of some group in prison, acting as a "bouncer.

The meaning of the skull tattoo with a crown is intuitive to almost everyone. It indicates that the person manages other prisoners, enjoys authority in the zone. Carriers of such a picture usually belong to the highest thieves' circles.

Design variations

Skulls are usually seen as scary and threatening symbols, but the fact is that they can be adapted for any person and depict different meanings. For example, a design done in black or gray can symbolize power and death. On the other hand, a skull done in delicate colors with eyes depicted in the form of hearts can look cute and attractive. Consider the most popular tattoo designs for guys and girls.

Skull with bones

This image was first used by pirates between the 18th and 19th centuries. They were the first group to use the symbol on their flags and sometimes combined it with crossed dice. In this way, the pirates intimidated their victims into surrendering without much resistance, otherwise death awaited them.

Sugar skull tattoo (calavera)

This symbol is an important part of the traditional Mexican holiday called "Day of the Dead," which is held on November 2 every year. On this day, a gathering of family and friends is held in memory of loved ones, at which edible sugar cookies in the form of skulls decorated with flowers and decorative patterns are made.

Also, this element is used as a token of honor for a deceased loved one. These elements are part of Mexican culture and are often used today as a motif for tattoos. The tattoo mourns a departed soul and at the same time celebrates the life that continues after his passing.

Skull and Roses

This is an original design that combines positive and negative feelings: the motif reminds all mankind of beauty and death.

Skull in Flowers

The floral skull looks more attractive, so it is often chosen to be applied to your body girls. The motif denotes beauty, the balance of good and evil.

Skull with wings

Such a picture is a symbol of freedom, independence, faith. The image is suitable for people who value their own opinion above all others.

Skull with a hood

A hooded skull with a scythe, which has a gloomy appearance, informs others of the cyclical nature of life and death. The scythe can be replaced with a more amusing object, such as a guitar, to add a sense of humor to the design.

Skull in the crown

This image is chosen by people seeking to occupy a high position in society or to have power. For this reason, the tattoo skull with a crown is quite in demand in the criminal world.

The girl and the skull (Santa Muerto).

Recently, this motif has become popular not only in Mexico, the country in which it originated, but also around the world. Such a drawing symbolizes the death of a loved one or betrayal, but in some cases can serve as a talisman.

Realistic design

A drawing made in the style of realism represents the confidence and strength of its owner. Also, this type of tattoo can symbolize or represent a person who overcame death, such as surviving a car accident or defeating a fatal disease.

Some tattoo image options may contain other objects such as flames, birds (e.g. phoenix, hummingbird), butterflies, feathers, anchors, dream catcher, dagger, angels, wings and stars: the choice depends only on the person's own preferences.

Nature

For women

For men