The differences between the male and female version
The widespread belief that a girl's skeleton image means sorrow is a thing of the past, being replaced by the concept of philosophical acceptance of reality. Now we can say that the skeleton has become a symbol of the victory of life over death, and some styles even refer us to the world of fantasy or post-apocalypse. Guys prefer to think about masculinity and playing with death.
Remember that each tattoo owner puts his or her own notion into the tattoo, even if it does not coincide with the general standard.
Experienced masters believe that you should not look for a photo of the tattoo on the Internet. The client, fixated on one particular beautiful drawing, does not perceive the master's advice and ends up risking getting a pathetic semblance of what he really wanted.
What does a skeleton tattoo mean?
The skeleton in almost all traditions of art, heraldry and symbolism means death. It is a great mystery, like birth, which has at all times thrilled mystics, shamans and ordinary people. "Memento mori" - "remember death" calls for an ancient aphorism, just as the skeleton tattoo reminds us of the transience of life and its obligatory end. This symbol of eternity, immortality of the spirit, renunciation of attachment to matter, it calls for appreciating life, valuing the precious "here and now", not putting things off, because then there may not be. In the Toltec tradition, people of knowledge believed that death was the best counselor. Don Juan transmitted the wisdom of the Mayan magicians to Carlos Castaneda and said, "Death is our eternal companion. If everything seems to be going wrong in life, it's worth asking yourself, is it so in the face of death? A skeleton tattoo will always remind its owner of these things. It will help to "be in the moment" and endow with courage and determination.
In Mexican culture, the skeleton, like the skull, refers to the holiday Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead), which has been celebrated for over 3,000 years. It is a day to honor deceased ancestors and make offerings to the goddess of death, the Mictlancihuatl. Earlier it was customary to keep skulls or skeletons of deceased relatives in homes, and they participated in rituals and celebrations on the Day of the Dead. Now few Mexicans keep real "skeletons in the closet," but images with skeletons or moulages are put around the house or decorate the walls with images of them. Mexicans treat skeletons without fear, but with love and respect, sometimes even with humor. For these people, the skeleton is a symbol of connection with ancestors, family values, and the continuation of life after death. They believe that the souls of their relatives are always around and can communicate with them.
The image of the skeleton in magical and religious symbolizes resurrection and transformation. In alchemy there are the following words about this image: "It is the new birth of primordial matter after its 'blackening', darkening and decomposition." What is the meaning of the skeleton tattoo in terms of the tradition of shamanism? A skeleton is bones and primarily represents a connection to the ancestors. Bones are sometimes present in a shaman's costume, they indicate the hereditary transmission of knowledge, and the skeleton is a kind of lineage. An ancestor bone helps a shaman connect to his shamanic ancestors, get their support and patronage, get access to the inexhaustible power of the cosmos. A skeleton is a person who is completely naked, he has lost all the cover and only the essence remains. For a shaman this image means entering into the original transcendental state, when the personality is completely erased, when he is completely empty, naked and open to the world around him, and energy literally "flows" through him. This fusion enables one to enter other worlds and empowers one. It is only through this ability that a shaman can be a shaman.
Also the skeleton in shamanic mythology is an allegory of the World Tree, the Tree of Life, that is the structure which reflects the universe. The skeleton looks like a tree: the spine is the trunk, the arms and legs are the branches, and the skull reflects the higher non-material spheres.
The Tree of Life is found in the Kabbalah and is reflected in the Tarot cards, and in both traditions the image of the skeleton is present. All the cards on this arcana show a skeleton on foot or on horseback, with or without a black robe. The Tarot card Death represents the death of the ego, it is a renewal of personality, parting with the past, the end of a stage of development, the inevitable end. The Tree of Life shows that after Death, the path leads to Tipheth - the sefira of spiritual awakening. In many spiritual and religious practices there is a rite of initiation, the symbol of which is also a skeleton. It is a ritual death, when a person says goodbye to his identity and dies in order to receive a "new body". For Buddhists, this means a complete rejection of desire and the exit from the wheel of samsara.
In the symbolism of astrology, the skeleton refers to the planets Pluto, the Moon and Saturn. In western astrology, the deity planet Pluto is Hades, the master of the realm of the dead. This planet of transformation, of great inner strength and power, but this power also brings destruction and creation, life and death. It is overcoming, power, the ability to lead and control, it is going beyond the boundaries of possibility. This power can be either physical or mental, either way it is power. Pluto is the planet of Scorpio, his abode of the 9th house, the home of death and sex. Such people can become a "fatal passion" for someone, which can lead to unpredictable, even tragic consequences.
In Indian astrology and mythology, the image of the skeleton is associated with the planet Saturn, and it is patronized by the deity Shani. Saturn is the oldest planet, it is responsible for restrictions, asceticism, order, humility, and working off bad karma. Hindus say that Shani is ruthless to the proud and selfish, he will put unbearable conditions for life, will "forge" a man a sage, as long as the ego is not broken. On the positive side, Saturn energy gives such qualities as modesty, patience, humility, firmness, strength of mind, confidence, constancy, seriousness, ability to unselfish activity and not being attached to the results of one's work.
The skeleton tattoo has more than one meaning, the image has deep roots in mythology, religion and art. This image is endowed with a special energy, which not everyone is able to endure. Treat the drawing responsibly, even if you do not believe in mysticism. Remember that this is for life, and anyway the tattoo may have an impact on how the fate.
A less innocuous, but just as popular symbol for a tattoo is the skeleton of a fish. With tribal peoples, this symbol reflects the choice of life's path. The fish looks like an arrow, its head indicates the direction. For those who want to decide where to go in life and what to do, a tattoo with a fish skeleton will help make a choice. The fish is also a symbol of the element Water, it is ruled by the planet Neptune. He rules the collective unconscious, illusions, intuition and creativity, fluids and poisons. In its negative aspect, it gives such qualities as dreaminess, "sinking" into own illusions, detachment from real life, dependence on alcohol, drugs, excessive susceptibility and suggestibility. The skeleton is the very essence, that is, a tattoo with a fish skeleton will protect its master from all these qualities, will help separate the real from the unreal, and cope with addictions.
Distinguishing characteristics
Skeleton tattoos have several distinctive features:
- They are often complemented with inscriptions in Latin.
- Not only human skeletons, but also skeletons of fish, cats and dogs are very popular
- For the last few years there has been a strong tendency towards the ironic or even sarcastic conception of the picture.
Perhaps it is difficult to name one particular place that is allocated for this tattoo:
- Forearm;
- Side;
- Chest, back and so on.
No restrictions - the sketch can be applied anywhere.
The meaning of the tattoo for men
In ancient times, the image of a skeleton on the body was very common among warriors. They believed. That the drawing made it clear that death was already here. By doing so, they protected themselves. Pirates and sailors wore a skeleton tattoo.
Such are the qualities of the owners of the tattoo:
- Humility
- Strength of will
- Acceptance of new things
- Courage
- Determination
Drawing on the body of a man indicates his reverence for the higher forces. He is not selfish and spiritually advanced man, trusting fate.
3D tattoo
The latest "fashion" of skeleton tattoo lovers has become 3D - the image, which exactly repeats the human skeleton in full size.
As an example of the famous bearers of such a tattoo can be called a unique personality - Rick Genest. Probably not many people know him by that name, but everyone has heard of Zombie Boy. This is a unique example of applying a tattoo to his body, the basis of the composition of which is his own skeleton.
Russian celebrities do not often indulge us with tattoos, but the performer Timati has many tattoos, including a skull with microphones located on his back.
Most tattoos are applied with regular ink, but there are real fans who ask to perform the tattoo with luminous ink to achieve the most flamboyant effect.
Tattoo Wings - meaning, examples of work
Wings can be different - angelic, bird, butterfly wings, etc. Depends on the image and the value of tattoo wings. Sometimes there is an image of the wings trimmed or scorched by fire, they are called the wings of vanity, the wings of Satan or fallen angels. Black wings, or bat wings, often applied by the Goths, are always associated with evil and danger. The meaning of the wings tattoo on the back found its symbolic essence and in prison, there this tattoo means the flight of the soul and the desire for lost freedom. And the tattoo of butterfly wings can represent a human soul, wishing to ascend to heaven. Such a tattoo can not infrequently mean the symbolic protection of a person. The meaning of the wings tattoo on the back for a person means exaltation over the world, with its problems and vanity, or an irrepressible desire to resemble at least outwardly to the messengers of heaven - winged angels. Angelic wings are usually large and wide, they represent innocence and childlike simplicity, high spiritual strength and purity. For girls, such a tattoo can become a symbol of divine beauty, inviolability and purity of the female image. And for men - a way to stand out from the crowd and a sign of goodness of soul. The meaning of the wings tattoo, covered with scales, embody the pinnacle of the dragon's power and defiance. And the ancient Egyptian artists and creators of applied art used wings as a symbol of power and majesty of the pharaoh. If there is an image of wings and heart, it means the union of two inseparable and eternal feelings: love and trust, because love without trust is evil and dangerous, and trust without love is cruel and fickle. A tattoo of wings can be a symbolic tribute to winged gods or deities once revered, or even today. In addition to angels and the incarnation of the Holy Spirit, this list includes the Greek messenger of the gods - Hermes, the god of night sleep and his son - Hippnos and Morpheus, the goddess Nemesis, harpies, griffins, and, of course, the naughty Fortune, and many others. If, however, the image of wings with feathers flying off indicates that the person wearing the tattoo is incredibly tired and tormented by worldly problems and the injustice of time. As you know, the most popular area for a tattoo of wings, is the shoulder blades and back, but the wings look very good and on other parts of the body: waist, neck, shoulders (for girls). Therefore, picking up the appropriate size, color and shape you can define and personal meaning for the tattoo of wings.
Performance style and location of the tattoo
Tattoo owners tend to stuff the image of a skeleton in the styles of old-school, new-school, traditional, realism. They choose different locations for the tattoo. Some stuffed a picture of bones on the fingers or completely on the outside of the brush, which looks good and original.
The view of the brush from afar resembles a skeleton. Since the image has an elongated shape, the hand, forearm or shoulder are good places to apply it. On the calf on the leg image of the skeleton looks advantageous. The military wear a skull tattoo on the shoulder or on the shoulder blade, which can be seen in life and in many photos.
For many, the image of a skeleton evokes a repulsive feeling. All because the bones are the remains of a formerly living creature. And some even think that it is the devil's symbolism. Do not pay attention to prejudice. If indeed the image is to your liking, the character traits are appropriate and the symbolism of the figure is close, then to make such a tattoo on the body will benefit the future owner.
Tattoo of a fish skeleton. The meaning of .
In the world, the fish skeleton tattoo is popular. The image has the character of a reference point. The head shows the right direction, the spine acts as a guide on the way, and the fins prompt the necessary information. Suitable tattoo for a man who hesitates in the correctness of his choice or hard to make decisions.
There is another interpretation of the tattoo. The image of a fish skeleton is similar to the male sexual organ. Guys put it on their body, believing that the picture will emphasize attractiveness and strength. Some tend to believe that the tattoo can bring bad luck in love.
Photo of a skull skeleton tattoo
Skull - one of the most popular options for artistic tattooing. His image is stuffed on the skin not only men: for the beautiful half also create a lot of original sketches.
The meaning of the skull tattoo.
The image symbolizes death, so many inspire fear and disgust. At the same time, the skull has long been considered a talisman from the dark forces, danger, and even death. In tattoo styles such as old skull and chicano, popular images include Santa Muerte - the Mexican goddess of death. They depict painted female skulls surrounded by flowers.
Monochrome tattoos are designed in such styles as black&gray, realism, sketch and hipshading. Colored tattoos are done in old skool, thrash polka or horror styles.
The details - roses, crowns, tongues of flame, daggers - play a great role in the sketch. They make the drawing more mystical and sinister.
On what parts of the body to place a tattoo skull
Shoulders, forearms, hips, ankles are the most popular areas for both men and women. Large scale tattoos can cover the entire chest or back, or form "sleeves". Small drawings are printed also on the neck, ankles.
Especially effectively such a tattoo looks on the back of the hand, especially if the picture is made in the technique of realism. The image looks three-dimensional thanks to the skillful drawing of shadows.
The skeleton on the tattoo is not only associated with the theme of death. This figure is stuffed on the body of an extraordinary person, not devoid of a sense of humor.
The meaning of the skeleton tattoo
The main message of the image is a reminder of the transience of life. However, not always the image of a skeleton carries information about the mortal threat. In bikers, such a tattoo indicates recklessness of character.
Some believe that the image of a skeleton serves as a talisman and protects its owner from danger.
The bikers' tattoos can even look glamorous if they are done in the chicano style. They are printed with skeletons of Santa Muerte, the goddess of the dead, depicted in a smart dress and a wreath of scarlet roses.
Often the sketch shows portraits of people with half-decayed faces. Such eerie works symbolize the mortality of existence.
On what parts of the body the skeleton tattoo is printed
The most popular areas where such a drawing is placed are the shoulders and forearms, the "sleeve" area, as well as the back. Less often tattoo with a skeleton can be found on the hips.
The image of naked bones is often found on the hands and feet, when the imitation of the absence of flesh is created. Such macabre tattoos are performed in the style of visage, realism or horror.
The meaning of tattoos for women
The tattoo is suitable for girls and women who live reality. The image means respect for universal laws. The owners of the tattoo have a well-developed intuitive thinking. They are able to assess things soberly and objectively.
The meaning of the tattoo:
- Respect for life
- Objectivity
- Advanced intuition
- Protection and help of ancestors
- Philosophical attitude towards life
