Scandinavian culture and traditions have not lost their popularity today, especially after numerous movies with the Vikings. Men increasingly prefer to follow this style, growing beards, as well as stuffing similar tattoos on the body. What Scandinavian tattoos for men mean and what they are, you can learn from the article below.
Considering the sketches of the top Scandinavian tattoos, a man should choose the option that has a clear designation, sacred meaning and corresponds to his character. Having decided on a photo of the drawing, it is necessary to choose a suitable place on the body, style and colors, as well as the presence of additional symbols.
Scandinavian tattoo for men. Scandinavian patterns and runes
Tattoos according to the Nordic traditions of Scandinavian culture have a rich history with magical influences. In the catalog of the best tattoos you can find thousands of interesting suggestions and designs. It is only important to remember that the Scandinavian tattoo is not strictly aesthetics and decorating body art, it is deep meaning.
The 2018-2019 top list includes the following Viking tattoos and their meaning:
Runes - A whole system of symbols and signs from Scandinavian writing, some of which carry positive meaning, while others can have a negative effect on a person. It is important to select strong magical symbols responsibly and to pad the body only in extreme cases.
Runic Ligatures - A combination of several runes at once, aimed at positive work in favor of their owner.
World Tree - The drawing of a huge ash tree connecting all the worlds in the universe. The owner of such a tattoo is prone to self-discovery, the search for truth.
One - supreme Scandinavian god who is still worshipped by many. A tattoo with Odin is the choice of a leader, a strong, courageous and wise man.
Ravens Hugin and Munin - birds in Scandinavian mythology are a symbol of metaphor, thought and memory. And so the tattoo speaks of the search for self, reflection and knowledge of the truth.
Valkyries - The Valkyries were the maidens-warriors with wings behind their backs, carrying the souls of warriors to the world of the gods. The tattoo speaks of bravery, masculinity, absence of fear and honor.
Ornaments - ornaments and ligatures decorated the body and armor of warriors, as they had a sacred and magical meaning. Drawings protected from risks and enemies, gave people the grace of the gods, and today act as talismans.
The ship - a symbol of courage and thirst for adventure, conquest and new discoveries. The owner of such a tattoo is the captain of his own destiny and life.
Runic compass - An ancient symbol that helps not to go astray. Today, such a tattoo also helps to make the right decisions and move in the right direction.
Thor's hammer - Tattoo of this format will be a strong talisman, as the owner will be under the patronage of the son of Odin Thor. Literally, the tattoo means destruction and creation, because the hammer can both kill and resurrect.
Two crossed axes - A symbol of power and strength, creation and protection from enemies, the desire to build a home and start a family. Tattoo will be an indicator of the reliability of a partner in life.
Viking with a rook - The near end or return home in the past, but today a symbol of courage, bravery and strength.
Viking with an axe - the unity of nature, the balance between man's strength and mind. If a warrior wears a helmet, it is a sign of security, reliability.
Viking and bear. - a symbol of wisdom and justice in a man, fearlessness in the owner of the tattoo.
Slapnir - A drawing of a horse with eight legs, which in mythology was owned by Odin. The tattoo should be understood as a sign of intelligence and wisdom, an active life position and willingness to move forward only.
Opinion of the expert
Viola Madison
Master of Tattoo, 8 years experience.
Conventionally, all the Scandinavian tattoos can be divided into patterns and ornaments, runes and symbols, as well as images of different gods and heroes from mythology. Each pattern implies a deep sacred meaning and influence on the destiny, so it is important to take the decision to score a Scandinavian tattoo responsibly.
Symbolic body art
One of the symbols of Thor's power and authority is his hammer Mjolnir, forged for the lord and subject only to him. In traditional culture it signifies dominance and great, unbending inner strength, freedom and the desire for new achievements or discoveries.
The great tree, Yggdrasil, which is the source of life in the world, can be applied to any part of the body. The naturalistic or symbolic image signifies the source of infinite wisdom and steadfastness, belief in the source of eternal wisdom and strength, thirst for knowledge and finding oneself.
Like the ancient Celtic, the Scandinavian style is quite recognizable and has its own, bright and original accents. The close connection between mythology and culture, religion and paganism, make it an interesting and fascinating thing to learn, especially when choosing a tattoo for yourself and decorating your body. A professional and good master will help to choose the original sketch with that meaning which will help in self-expression of each person.
What does a Scandinavian tattoo give to a man?
Over the past few years, Scandinavian tattoos have made a comeback in tattoo culture due to the popular Viking series around the world. Men prefer these tattoos for several reasons:
- If they are runes., they can affect the character, consciousness and karma of the person;
- If they are different drawings of Viking deities, they act as a strong talismans and amulets;
- if they are mythical characters and heroes, they express courage, honor, bravery and strength in the bearer of the tattoo;
- If they are patternsIf they are patterns, they act as amulets against dangers, dark forces and the weaknesses of the human soul;
- If they are drawings of animalsIf they are drawings of animals, they act as a characteristic of the bearer of the tattoo, a kind of association.
For some men Scandinavian mythology and tattoos in this style are an integral part of a brutal and warlike image. Practice shows that the runes, gods, mythical characters and patterns give strength and confidence to men.
The Slavic tattoos: a bit of history
In the world of body painting it is believed that the Slavic tattoos have quite a long history. It dates back to the ancient Slavs, who decorated their bodies with a variety of drawings. Each of them was a certain symbol and talisman, which guided a person to the right path of life and protected from everything negative.
At the same time we should note that about the tattoos of the Slavic people not much is known for sure. Therefore, scientists can only speculate on how things were in those times. Considering the various sources and stories, we can conclude that the body was covered with patterns, signs and runes. In those times, people especially believed in gods, sorcerers and mermaids. In addition, some symbols were made in memory of their ancestors. It was believed that several runes on a person's body gave him special strength and endurance.
Interestingly, in ancient Russia Slavic tattoos were applied only after the age of thirty-three. It was at this age a person was finally formed. Therefore, any symbols and amulets could safely be applied to the body. By the way, it was made only by magi, who had special knowledge and abilities.
With the advent of Christianity, tattoos got under a ban. Because they were considered a sign of paganism. At that time, one of the tasks of religion was to eradicate all the rituals, festivals and activities of pagans. In turn, priests shielded parishioners from spirits, evil mythical forces and much more. In the modern world, the attitude to tattoos is completely different. Now they are considered a body decoration. Moreover, the drawing of Slavic drawings shows a certain respect for history and ancestors. Therefore, often personal deep meaning is invested in the various images.
On what places do men most often apply "Viking" tattoos?
The location of the tattoo also involves deep meaning and a special interpretation of the body art. Scandinavian motifs usually involve complex and large sketches on the entire arm, back, chest, it can also be moderate sketches on secluded places.
Shoulder
On the shoulder will look original tattoo with different deities or warriors, personifying the strength, courage and strong protection of a man.
Forearm
Scandinavian sketches on the forearm is a universal option for a medium-sized tattoo. It can be an image of magical runes, Nordic deities or different Scandinavian plots from mythology.
Tattoo on the wrist
On the wrist is not a lot of space for tattoos, so men choose different runes, symbols of Scandinavian script with deep meaning and implication. Here you can also apply any pattern in this style.
Tattoos on the palm, on the hand and fingers
On the palms of the hands are printed strong and personal tattoos - symbols, magic signs, inscriptions that can enhance a man's abilities. On the fingers are appropriate different small patterns and inscriptions. On the hands often stuffed ornaments, consisting of several small patterns.
Tattoo sleeve
A sleeve is a tattoo on the hand, completely overlapping it with its sketch. The sleeve most often acts as a complex composition consisting of a combination of runes and ornaments. The faces of gods, various mythical characters are added to them.
Neck
On the neck small tattoos with deep sacred meaning are appropriate. It is desirable to choose runes, inscriptions, patterns, acting as amulets and talismans, as they work harder if placed near the head.
Chest
On the chest aesthetically attractive and masculine will look artistic drawings - crows, wild animals, popular characters and deities from Nordic mythology.
Side
On the side are usually depicted tattoos that carry a deep philosophical and non-trivial meaning. The ideal solution - the tree of life or a ship in the Scandinavian style, signifying the search for self and truth.
Thigh
Scandinavian tattoos are rarely beaten on the thighs, it is rather the choice of the female half of society. Most often these are patterns or a whole ornament consisting of different repeating patterns.
Back
The back - the most spacious canvas for tattoos, usually here apply large sketches and entire compositions. Here are appropriate gods, warriors, wild animals and birds, and enhance the meaning and work of the tattoo can runes and ancient inscriptions.
Shovel
On the scapula can look original runic compass, a drawing from Norse mythology, a complex ornament or a small pattern.
Foot
On the legs it is customary to stuff the Scandinavian tattoos in the format of patterns and ornaments, popular today runic knots, complex ornaments of several patterns at once. Also, some men completely cover their legs with drawings with ships, battles and deities of Nordic peoples.
Tattoos from the TV series Vikings
The Vikings series, based on the ancient Scandinavian saga of Ragnar Lothbrok, made tattoos with Nordic themes popular these days. The characters in the series use tattoos for ritual purposes: to help in battle, to achieve the patronage of the gods or to intimidate the enemy. The original Viking tattoos are runes, patterns and ornaments. The older a man gets, the more pictures he has on his body.
Are there any guidelines for applying Scandinavian tattoos?
If you wish to score a Scandinavian style tattoo on your body, ask yourself a few important questions beforehand that predetermine your final decision. Namely:
- Why do you want a tattoo?
- What do you expect from a tattoo in your future?
- Are you ready to wear the body art for the rest of your life?
- Is the tattoo for you just aesthetics or sacred meaning?
- Does the chosen design fit in with your image, lifestyle and character?
Important! Remember that a tattoo must not create dissonance and contradictions between its meaning and your character. Scandinavian motifs are appropriate only in the presence of strength, courage, masculinity and brutality.
Did the Vikings use tattoos?
There is evidence that the Vikings loved to cover their entire body with tattoos. Through body art, they emphasized their social status and expressed their commitment to their pagan faith. The themes of body art were varied, but most often they were motifs associated with Odin, Thor, Fenrir and the Valkyries.
From the records of Ahmad ibn Fadlan, the Arab traveler, it is known that the Vikings wore tattoos from their fingernails to their necks. They all carried an axe, a large sword and a knife.
How do I choose a tattoo design for a place on my body?
How to choose a sketch, if you have exactly determined the place on the body? It is enough to adhere to the principle of proportionality, which is as follows:
- large sketchesCompositions and complex drawings are printed on spacious places - on the back, chest, sides, legs and arms;
- moderate drawings Medium complexity will be normally perceived visually on shoulders and forearms, hips and shoulder blades;
- Small and simple tattoos Harmoniously fit on small areas of the body - on the hands, wrists, palms or fingers, as well as on the neck of a man.
Remember that the more the skin is exposed to mechanical impact and contact with different substances, the faster the design will wear out. This means that it is better to apply here uncomplicated miniature variants, which can be easily and quickly corrected. Personal non-trivial tattoos are hidden from view, demonstrative variants can be imposed on the open areas.
Do you like ancient Viking tattoos?
YesNo
What's different about Viking tattoos for men
If a tattooist's client is first introduced to a selection of images with Vikings or Scandinavian culture. He will definitely pay attention that they are created in dark colors with the addition of brown or red motifs. This is due to the transfer of the real life journey of a Viking - filled with blood and dirt.
Tattoo artists painstakingly apply every detail to convey the beautiful relief of muscles, braided beards, the elegance of the lines of a shield or helmet. This is aided by the many photos of actual weapons or armor that serve as excellent examples.
A man who prefers a tattoo with a Viking or a mythological creature: Thor, Odin aspires to a leadership position in society. He wins a new position, the most beautiful woman, loves to travel and regularly improve himself in order to get the most out of life, as the Vikings, above all, were distinguished by a cheerful character.
Styles and colors that are popular for tattoos with Scandinavian themes
What styles are appropriate for Scandinavian tattoos, can suggest an experienced master. But most often the following options are used:
realism - When stuffed with gods, warriors, mythical creatures, beasts and birds;
tribal or ornamental - when a craftsman depicts different patterns and complex combinations of them;
graphics - appropriate for entire artistic compositions and subjects from mythology;
blackwork - brutal and somewhat gloomy style;
minimalism - It is practiced if the tattoo is placed on a small area of the body.
Scandinavian motifs accept darker shades more often - black, gray, brown, etc. Rarely a man chooses one of the variants of the above sketches, wishing to perform it in bright mottled shades.
Slavic runes: the meaning of the tattoo
Not many people know that the Slavic runes are a manifestation of writing. They have a deep historical meaning. Of course, to understand the meaning of each of them requires quite a lot of time. However, in general, we can say that each symbol looks in its own unique way. Their interpretations include such words as rainbow, peace, strength, support, rock and more.
Symbols with which the Scandinavian tattoo can be combined
If a man has decided on the main character or plot of the tattoo, to strengthen and complement its meaning, you can use other symbols. For example:
crows - A symbol of wisdom and connection to the netherworld;
wolf - loneliness;
triad - a symbol of trinity and divine power;
Three crossed horns - The sign of the warrior and sacrifice;
tree - a symbol of earth's connection to the cosmos.
For reference! In fact, the Scandinavian peoples are not Vikings, but Icelanders, Norwegians, Swedes and Danes. And the Vikings are part of the Scandinavian or Slavic people associated with maritime robbery, travel and trade.
Slavic tattoos of animals and birds
Quite often animals or birds were the main accent of the tattoo. All of them have completely different meanings, about which it is worth knowing before the process of application. For example, the bear is the master of the forest and the embodiment of the god Veles. Therefore, the symbol in the form of a tattoo always means power, strength, as well as health and fertility.
The wolf is the guide of souls to the afterlife. Often such a symbol means justice, courage, cunning, and even loneliness. However, when choosing for yourself such a variant, try to put in a picture the correct, suitable to you personally message. Otherwise, the amulet will only do harm.
In turn, the raven was always associated with the dark forces. Despite this, he is a wise bird. It is most often chosen for men. The image of the dragon symbolizes the unity of life and death, good and evil. Many people believe that this amulet helps to avoid or overcome internal strife, which is inherent in every person.
If you decide to do the Slavic tattoo, be sure to look for an experienced master. The fact is that in this case every detail counts. Therefore, it is very important that he was familiar with the specifics of applying such drawings.
Tattoo amulets for the zodiac signs
To begin with, one's own Zodiac sign is already an excellent talisman. You can apply both the image itself and the symbol, placed, for example, on your shoulder or between your thumb and forefinger. It will help manifest the best qualities, strengthen the virtues, protect against adversity. With the support of your Zodiac you will tune in to the cosmic rhythms, balance the flow of life, believe in your own strength, cope with grand plans.
For those who do not want to portray the very symbol or image of the Zodiac, use plants appropriate to it:
- Aries - Violet and cornflower;
- Taurus - Lilac and lily of the valley;
- Gemini - Daisies and poppies;
- Cancer - Water lilies and white flowers;
- Leo - Peonies and chrysanthemums;
- Virgo - asters and mother-oil;
- Libra - Roses (preferably without thorns);
- Scorpio - Carnation and hop flowers;
- Sagittarius - narcissus;
- Capricorn - holly and white carnation;
- Aquarius - Snowdrop and violet;
- Pisces - Crocuses, primroses and forget-me-nots.
Symbolism of each Zodiac Sign
Colorful zodiacal sketches
Tattoo for Gemini
Tattoo for Cancer
Capricorn constellation
Tattoo for Leo
Constellation sketches
Zodiac Signs in minimalism
Tattoo for Scorpio
Tattoo for Sagittarius
Tattoo with roses - a talisman for Libra
Pictures from portfolio of the master Valery Kholodova (Kiev)
Sleeve with roses - another option of tattoos for Libra
The meaning of runic symbols.
Esotericists conventionally divide rune symbols into two groups. The first is runes protectors. The second group of runes activates the hidden abilities and inspires action. But to determine any universal value of the runes tattoo is impossible. Each symbol is self-valuable and carries certain information.
The choice of runes depends on the preferences of the bearer and the interpretation of the symbol. Although there is a theory that the rune itself chooses the owner. Therefore, the choice relies solely on intuition.
Men's tattoos
Popular male symbols include:
- Valkyrie . - An ancient amulet, often worn on the armor, strengthening the honor of the warrior;
- Svarog's square - for men engaged in physical labor, gives wit, helps to intelligently allocate available resources;
- Caroler - Brings wisdom and good luck in battle;
- Sunny (Celtic) Cross - tattoo gives courage, strength of spirit, faith in the cause; in ancient times, too, carved on shields and swords, helping in battles.
Scandinavian amulet trayblade
Symbol of the Valkyrie
Tattoo of a Celtic cross
Caroler
Svarog square
Scandinavian rune
Tattoo sketch Brodex
Celtic runes
Celtic Tattoo
Perun
Valkyrie with a sword
Tattoo of Odin
Tattoo with the warrior defender
Photos from the portfolio of master Nikolay Derevinsky (Kiev)
Division of Vegvisir into species
Keep in mind that there are three types of Vegvisir purpose:
- The first is known as the spell of terror, a symbol tattooed on a warrior's forehead before battle to frighten enemies.
- The second, was used as a compass to guide in the event of a storm or as an amulet to guide on the path of truth.
- The latter is known as the "Helmet Protector" and was depicted by warriors on their own helmet.
A Brief Profile of the Vikings
The Vikings were the inhabitants of Scandinavia, who occupied the territories of modern-day Denmark, Sweden and Norway in the 8th to 11th centuries AD.
The Vikings were primarily warriors and sailors, so the image of them as fearless barbarians has stuck. Although their society valued strength, in reality they did more than just raid. The Vikings included many farmers, merchants, artists, craftsmen, and explorers.
They made their own weapons, wax, and honey. The Vikings purchased silk, silver and precious metals from other nations.
Tattoo amulets: top cautions
When choosing a tattoo-protector, you need to pay careful attention to the rules. Most often, it is customary to make such tattoos small, in areas hidden from view (on the back and chest). But the ligature in the form of a bracelet is traditionally placed on the wrists or ankles. But, of course, the choice of place and size of the amulet depends on the person. Although overdo it is not necessary - you can "overdo it": a lot of signs at once or changes in established symbols will bring unpredictable results.
Advised to choose the amulet, whose power is needed most in a particular period: four-leaf clover for good luck or Scandinavian runu Eyvaz to protect against negative energy. If the constant influence of the symbol is undesirable, make a henna drawing - it will come off on its own within a month. If necessary, the drawing is renewed or, on the contrary, washed off early, if the effect is achieved or does not fit.
Tattoo with a clover - a magnet for good luck
Tattoo amulet with henna. Pictures from the portfolio of artist Irina Kostrova (Kiev).
