More than 3,000 years ago, an ancient Egyptian woman tattooed her body with dozens of symbols — including lotus blossoms, cows and divine eyes — that may have been linked to her religious status or her ritual practice.
Full Answer
What does an Egyptian tattoo mean?
What do Egyptian tattoos mean?Egyptian tattoos are beautiful representations of power and prestige. They speak to days of old when pharaohs ruled the land and gods and goddesses were put on high pedestals. It was a different age but the markings have followed people through the generations. Egyptian tattoos are still popular among many people.
What does a tattoo represent in Egypt?
Popular Egyptian Motifs + Tattoo Designs and Meanings
- Egyptian Cat Tattoo. Cats were some of the most important animals in ancient Egypt. ...
- Eye of Horus Tattoo. One of the globally recognized ancient Egyptian symbols is the Eye of Horus. ...
- Ankh Tattoo. ...
- Pharaoh Tattoo. ...
- Nefertiti Tattoo. ...
- Anubis Tattoo. ...
- Cleopatra Tattoo. ...
- Pyramid Tattoo. ...
- Isis Tattoo. ...
- Hieroglyphs Tattoo. ...
Why are Egyptian tattoos so popular?
Top Egyptian Tattoo Motifs
- Egyptian Cat Tattoo. One of the most revered and cherished animals in ancient Egypt was the domesticated cat. ...
- Ankh Tattoo. The ankh tattoo's meaning is centered upon the concept of eternal life. ...
- Eye of Horus Tattoo. ...
- Eye of Ra Tattoo. ...
- Pharaoh Tattoo. ...
- Egyptian Gods Tattoo. ...
- Sphinx Tattoo. ...
- Pyramid Tattoo. ...
- Egyptian Scarab Tattoo. ...
- Hieroglyph Tattoo. ...
What is the Egyptian culture?
Top 28 Ancient Egyptian Symbols and their meanings
- Egyptian Ankh. The symbol of the cross “Ankh”, also known as Anj, is an ancient Egyptian hieroglyph that symbolizes eternal life and is one of the most famous ancient Egyptian ...
- Eye of Horus. ...
- Scarab Beetle. ...
- Pilar Djed. ...
- The ancient Egyptian symbol “Tyet”. ...
- Maat’s pen. ...
- Egyptian Maat. ...
- Ka and Ba. ...
- Seba. ...
- Shen Ring. ...
What does a tattoo mean?
How much does an Egyptian tattoo cost?
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What do Egyptian tattoos symbolize?
One of the globally recognized ancient Egyptian symbols is the Eye of Horus. It is a religious symbol that represents healing, well-being, health, and protection. The symbols of the Eye stems from a mythical conflict between Horus and Set (god of desserts and storms, rival of Horus).
What does an Egyptian queen tattoo mean?
Egyptian Tattoos. Queen Nefertiti ruled alongside the revolutionary Pharaoh Akhenaten and has been described at different times as “the most beautiful woman in history.” A Nefertiti tattoo symbolizes feminine strength, power, beauty and devotion, and are popular motifs for lovers of Ancient Egyptian body art designs.
What do Cleopatra tattoos mean?
A Cleopatra tattoo can symbolize women in power and excellent leadership skills. Cleopatra would often dress up as the goddess Isis- not just for the fashion.
What did ancient Egyptian tattoos symbolize?
In ancient Egypt tattoos had a huge significance and many different meanings. For some it was a symbol that represented their social group and community, for some it was a sign that depicted what they believed, for some it was meant to make their body even more beautiful and attractive.
What does Cleopatra symbolize?
While queen of Egypt (51–30 BCE), Cleopatra actively influenced Roman politics at a crucial period and was especially known for her relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. She came to represent, as did no other woman of antiquity, the prototype of the romantic femme fatale.
Who is the most famous Egyptian goddess?
Isis -Isis - The most powerful and popular goddess in Egyptian history. She was associated with virtually every aspect of human life and, in time, became elevated to the position of supreme deity, "Mother of the Gods", who cared for her fellow deities as she did for human beings.
What is the symbol of love in Egyptian?
The Eye of RaNote: The Eye of Ra is an ancient Egyptian symbol of protection, love, good health, royal authority, and power.
Are tattoos common in Egypt?
As a result of Egypt turning into more of a religiously led country, with a large Muslim population as well as a strong Coptic Christian population, tattooing is largely seen as taboo and against 'social norms' primarily due to it being seen as a sort of sin by Egypt's religious community.
What does Nefertiti symbolize?
Nefertiti depicted on a ring by 1st Culture. As a result, that's what she mostly symbolizes today – the power of beauty and femininity. Nefertiti can also be seen as a symbol of mystery and of ancient Egypt itself. She's often featured in artwork, décor items, and jewelry.
Why did Egyptians wear tattoos?
Perhaps, as in the present, the tattoo in ancient Egypt had many meanings aside from amuletic protection or cultic devotion. In the case of the image of Bes, a god known as well for encouraging merriment as providing protection, perhaps it was simply an expression of the joy one found in living one's life.
What is the goddess Isis?
Although initially an obscure goddess, Isis came to fulfill a variety of roles, primarily as wife and mother, mourner, and magical healer. She was a role model for women, was a principal deity in rites for the dead, and cured the sick. She also had strong links with the kingship and the pharaohs.
What does the eye of Ra tattoo mean?
About the Eye of Ra Tattoo The Eye of Ra symbolizes the Egyptian god of the sky (sometimes referred to as simply the sun god) and his ability to both watch over and observe the things you do. It is also said to symbolize light and all good things as well as ward off evil spirits.
What is the meaning of tattoos in Egypt?
Egyptian Tattoos: Symbolism and Meaning. Written by Christopher Owers in Symbolism/Meaning. Tattoos relating to the wonders of Ancient Egyptian art and its rich mythology and culture are one way in which Egyptian culture is still celebrated today. Popular motifs include Tutankhamun himself and hieroglyphic signs, ...
What is the most famous tattoo in Ancient Egypt?
Finds from the tombs of Ancient Egypt have, quite literally, become iconic. The extraordinary death mask of Tutankhamun is a popular tattoo choice, but there are many other options, such as the famous stone carving of the head of the beautiful Queen Nefertiti, or the elegant bronze and gold Gayer-Anderson cat.
What is the symbol of Tutankhamun?
Popular motifs include Tutankhamun himself and hieroglyphic signs, such as the ankh and the Eye of Horus. Related symbols from Near and Middle Eastern cultures that are much loved in contemporary tattoo art include the Eye of God, also known as the Eye of Providence, that also features in Hinduism and Buddhism.
What does the Ankh tattoo mean?
The ankh is actually a hieroglyphic sign meaning ‘life’, but it could also symbolize air and water, the essentials for life.
What is the eye of Horus tattoo?
Eye of Horus Tattoo. Images relating to the deities of Ancient Egypt also regularly feature in tattoo designs. The Eye of Horus, the falcon-headed sky god, is derived from hieroglyphics. It was – and still is – associated with protection and good luck.
What is an OM tattoo?
An om tattoo is ideal for anyone interested in yoga, or eastern spirituality generally. As with the other tattoos discussed here, it evokes great civilizations and the most profound religious beliefs of some of the world’s greatest ever cultures.
What does the pyramid of the eye mean?
Here the pyramid often appears instead as a simple triangle enclosing the eye. This refers to the Holy Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit). The eye is also often shown with rays of light emanating from it and radiating downward, representing the divine gaze.
Egyptian Tattoos Placement Ideas
Hand or finger placement – Egyptian tattoos that work best on the hand would be the ones featuring hieroglyphs and small but meaningful motifs like the Ankh or the Eye of Hours. Some people even get small pharaoh tattoos on their hands.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this article was informative and helpful for those interested in getting an ancient Egypt-inspired tattoo. We tried to go into detail with the meanings, so you really know what kind of tattoo you’re getting. For more interesting tattoo ideas, make sure to check out or other articles; there are tattoo designs and ideas for everybody.
What is the goddess of tattoos?
Egyptian Goddess Isis was the mother of Horus. She was considered as the goddess of poor people and mother of nature and magic. A cool idea for Egyptian tattoos for females would be to try isis tattoo on full back. 22. There are many Egyptian goddesses that could be the inspiration for your next tattoo.
What goddess is the inspiration for tattoos?
There are many Egyptian goddesses that could be the inspiration for your next tattoo. My favorite would be Maat (goddess of law and justice), Input, Anuket (Goddess of river Nile), Bast (Goddess of cats) and Hathor (Goddess of Love). 23. Egyptian God Anubis was also cited as a protector of law and justice.
What does an ankh tattoo mean?
Egyptian Ankh symbolizes life and it is in the form of a cross. While many like to have a simple Egyptian ankh tattoo you can have a modified version like this. 6. I don’t think it’s a cool idea to have an ancient Egyptian tattoo on the full-back but still many people love to have them.
What is the symbol of the Egyptian god?
Egyptian God Horus was cited as the god of the sky by ancient Egyptians. His symbol was that of an eye. The eye of Horus represented magical powers and blessings from deities. Here is an Egyptian eye tattoo that will look meaningful to people who believe in ancient mythology.
Can you get a tattoo of Horus on both hands?
According to Egyptian tattoos history people of ancient egypt used to have tattoos of their cats. 44. Even though it’s not a meaningful idea to have the eye of Horus tattoo on both hands but it will look cool if you have such matching tattoo with your sibling.
Who is the most popular Egyptian queen?
Here is an egyptian queen tattoo that shows the re-imagination of egyptian queens. 29. Cleopatra is surely the most popular Egyptian queen of all time but the land of ancient Egypt was ruled by many powerful females. You can try tattoos of those queens.
Do Egyptian pharaohs have tattoos?
The Egyptian pharaohs often used to glorify themselves. You can have a tattoo of Egyptian tombs that had been molded according to the face of pharaohs. 26. Egyptian pharaohs used to have a long beard on their chin so make sure you show that In your Egyptian pharaoh tattoos.
What does the tattoo on the hand of an Egyptian mummy mean?
The aforementioned was also referred to as the Eye of Horus and it symbolizes protection, royal power and good health.
When did Egyptians get tattoos?
Egyptians have been documented as having tattoos as early as 4 th century B.C. which they borrowed from Nubia. Reasons vary nonetheless, let’s examine some of the speculated reasons for Egyptians to modify their skin. Some historians have guessed that Egyptian women of lower class tended to have tattoos on their skin.
What color pigments were used in tattoos?
Some tattoo kits had bronze needles. Black, green and blue pigment was used on the skin. The hues represented fertility, life, birth and rebirth. All in all, tattoos were worn by a majority of women of all walks of life for beautification purposes and for divine protection.
Why is body art important?
The body art was also thought of as a way to protect the unborn child; a barrier between the outside world and the environment of the baby. The image of Bes, a God who shielded pregnant women and was credited as being the god of sexuality, fertility, humor and joy, was found on the inner thighs of women.
What is the most ancient Egyptian tattoo?
Another wonderful tattoo from ancient Egypt is the vulture goddess Nekhbet. Nekhbet is the most ancient of Egyptian oracles, that’s there even before the dynastic era of Egypt! Anybody who is looking for a design that represents grace, beauty, and truth altogether, then Nekhbet is for her!
What is the best tattoo for men in Egypt?
Here are top 30 Amazing Egyptian Tattoo Ideas for Men and Women! 1. The Wadjet. The Wadjet makes for an amazing Egyptian tattoo. The Wadjat is an ancient Egyptian symbol that represents the circle of life that predates dynastic Egypt. This beautiful symbol came into being even before the pharaohs came to rule Egypt.
What is a nemes tattoo?
Nemes is the name of the headdresses worn by Egyptian pharaohs in ancient Egypt, who was considered God by the masses in ancient Egypt. Nemes were worn by only Egyptian pharaohs that symbolizes royalty and power. You can get this tattoo either in larger size or if you are looking for something smaller in size, then Nemes is a perfect tattoo design from ancient Egypt. You can get this one on your hand, or finger. It will look perfect.
What is the Egyptian Pantheon?
The ancient Egyptian Pantheon makes for an ultimate tattoo design. This design basically represents everything about Egypt such as Isis, Ra, Anubis, Horace, and more. It comes out as a beautiful collage etched on your body. And trust me it looks great! Get it anywhere!!
What is the meaning of Anubis tattoo?
Anubis is the design for you to get if you are really looking for something unique for yourself. This tattoo looks perfect when etched on hand.
What is the best tattoo for Tutankhamen?
And the best thing about this tattoo is you can get this one either in large size or in smaller size. The tattoo inked on your body will have intense effects, especially when done on your finger in a small size.
What does the scarab tattoo represent?
The sacred scarab holding up the sun looks amazing tattoo design. The combination simply represents the fearless power and breathe. This beautiful tattoo can be etched on your shoulder, neck, nape, or near the ear.
Most Popular Egyptian Tattoos
The ancient Egyptians, have fascinated many people around the world for decades and, nowadays, this the world for decades and, nowadays, this fascination has moved to the world of tattoos. to the world of tattoos. The ancient Egyptians were the first known known culture that used tattoos, they had an alphabet based on images (the hieroglyphs).
Meaning and Symbolism of Egyptian Tattoos
Egyptian tattoos are characterized by representing a balance of power. It is very common to see the gods of this mythology and their main symbols tattooed on the skin. At that time, the gods were the center of the culture and people used tattoos as a way to connect with them.
Egyptian Tattoos for Men
Generally, Egyptian tattoos, have a delicate and harmonious aesthetic, and, as you have seen, with a deep meaning. Egyptian mythology has given origin to many symbols chosen for tattoos for both men and women. But usually, the Egyptian tattoos that men prefer are large and with many details. Usually on the arms, chest or back.
Egyptian Tattoos for Women
Women tend to choose smaller, more discreet tattoo designs. But that doesn't mean that their tattoos don't have the meaning they want to give them. Some examples of Egyptian tattoos that women usually choose are:
Small Egyptian Tattoos
Most of the Egyptian symbols are usually represented with small tattoos. These, in many cases are in discreet areas, although, as always, it depends on the taste of each one since a tattoo is personal. Below, you can see some examples of small Egyptian tattoos:
Large Egyptian Tattoos
In this case, tattoos are usually made with a lot of details, made with different types of lines and even giving them depth effect with shadows. Some examples can be:
Egyptian tattoos on body parts
While in most types of tattoos, the most common body part by far when it comes to getting tattoos is the arm and, more specifically, the shoulder, in Egyptian tattoos, we find a wide variety of body parts that are usually tattooed.
Who wrote about tattoos in ancient Egypt?
Louis Keimer, who authored a key text on tattooing in ancient Egypt, wrote that all tattooed women in Egypt were "prostitutes of dubious morality.". Yet in recent decades, the surging popularity of tattoos has shifted perceptions. More articles have been published since 2000 on ancient tattoos than in the entire 20th century.
Why did Hathor get tattoos?
By tattooing in public regions of the body, the tattoos were intended to permanently mark the woman as associated with religious worship.
What is the tattoo on the Ramesside Temple?
Other tattoos, like a bent-lotus plant, appear as graffiti on the stones of the Ramesside temple to Hathor at Deir el Medina. This hieroglyph served as a link between Hathor and papyrus marshes. Additionally, open lotus blossoms abound on the graffiti of the temple floor and were tattooed on either hip.
What is the significance of the tattoos on the Deir el Medina?
Yet, in the case of the Deir el Medina mummy, a tattooed woman clearly had an important connection to religion. While we cannot give her a priestly title, the permanent, public and religious nature of her tattoos indicates that women’s religious roles in ancient Egypt were more complex than titles suggest.
Where is the Eye of Horus?
The Eye of Horus was placed on the throat, the two shoulders and the back ; from any angle when one looked at this woman, a pair of divine eyes peered back. These divine eyes were written together with the hieroglyph nefer. This combination forms the phrase “to do good.”.
What did the divine formulas do to the woman's throat?
The placement of divine formulas “to do good” on her throat and shoulders may have magically imbued her song, speech and every arm movement with this ability. The striking findings run counter to some earlier research in Egyptology, which gave little credit to women in religious practice.
What did Egyptian women tattoo?
More than 3,000 years ago, an ancient Egyptian woman tattooed her body with dozens of symbols — including lotus blossoms, cows and divine eyes — that may have been linked to her religious status or her ritual practice. Preserved in amazing detail on her mummified torso, the surviving images represent the only known examples ...
What does the tattoo on the woman's throat mean?
Austin explained that the symbols' position on the woman's throat — directly over her voice box — may have signaled that whenever the woman spoke or sang, she invoked a ritual power to do good. These figural tattooed images — the first of their kind found on an Egyptian mummy — provide important clues about the significance and symbolic nature ...
What are the symbols of Egyptian mummies?
Egyptian Mummy's Symbolic Tattoos Are 1st of Their Kind. Tattoos found at the mummy's neck show several Wadjet eyes — a sign associated with the divine and with protection. (Image credit: Ann Austin) More than 3,000 years ago, an ancient Egyptian woman tattooed her body with dozens of symbols — including lotus blossoms, ...
What are the eyes on the mummy's neck?
The mummy's neck, back and shoulders were decorated with images of Wadjet eyes — divine eyes associated with protection. Ghada Darwish, an Egyptian archaeologist, using infrared light and a sensor to see tattoos otherwise hidden in visible light. (Image credit: Ann Austin)
What was the practice of placing amulets around the neck before a burial?
RECOMMENDED VIDEOS FOR YOU... Austin initially thought the markings on the neck had been painted there, she told Live Science in an email. According to Austin, it was a common practice in Egypt at that time to place amulets around the neck before a burial.
What does an Egyptian tattoo mean?
Egyptian mythology is loaded with a myriad of different gods, goddesses, and god-like creatures, and every single Egyptian image symbolizes something.
What is the most famous tattoo in Ancient Egypt?
Ancient Egyptian Tattoo. This ancient sarcophagus is, perhaps, the most iconic and well known ancient Egyptian symbol of all! All royalty in ancient Egypt was buried in this unmistakable casket! For a tattoo that everyone will recognize, we suggest this sarcophagus!
Why is Tutankhamen so famous?
Tutankhamen may be even better known than Isis herself, perhaps because his story is relatively new and modern compared to the culture he comes from, or maybe because his story is the most intriguing of all. A boy made king at a young age, his rule only lasted about nine years. His story and artifacts have traveled the globe more than once. Any tattoo of the golden nemes of King Tut will add elegance and drama to your body art!
What is the name of the headdresses worn by Egyptian pharaohs?
Nemes is the actual name of the headdresses worn ONLY by Egyptian pharaohs in ancient Egypt and, in ancient Egypt, the reigning pharaoh was considered God by the masses. For the ultimate symbol of royalty and power, look no further than the Nemes !
What is the symbol of ancient Egypt?
The ankh – another iconic symbol of ancient Egypt. The ankh signified its holder as the reigning pharaoh and represents life, breath and air. This lovely tattoo is stunning on the wrist but would really work well anywhere you have it done. You can’t go wrong with a tattoo of the ancient Egyptian ankh.
What is the tattoo of the Egyptian god of the underworld?
He bears the legendary scepter, one of the two symbols of royalty in ancient Egypt. This large scale tattoo will best fit on a large area of your body, such as the ribs area shown here, or along a shoulder. 23.
What is the circle of life tattoo?
This ancient Egyptian symbol for the circle of life actually predates dynastic Egypt. In other words, this symbol was around long before the pharaohs came to rule Egypt. It’s elegant depiction of the circle of life, surrounded and protected by two cobras, and guided by the eye of the sun, is the perfect tattoo for anyone who truly values the sanctity of life! What makes the Wadjat even better is that it is perfect for a man or a woman! It would be stunning across the back, as shown here, or across the shoulders or stomach.
Culture
Causes
- There are several types of Egyptian Tattoos you can get today. These tattoos use both ancient and modern symbols to create a perfect masterpiece. The Egyptian artworks and symbols are quite unique because they have well-hidden meanings. Today, there are still tons of Egyptian symbols historians have yet to find out the meaning. For this reason, some people think that oth…
Story
- When you talk about Ancient Egypt, you will always encounter countless stories about the Sphinx. The Sphinx has become very iconic, not only in Egypt but in other parts of the world as well. A Sphinx is a mythical creature that is quite unique. It consists of a human head, but has the body of a lion. It is famous for being merciless and treacherous. There is a story about some people wh…
Benefits
- Many Egyptian tattoos serve as amulets or protection. Although there is really no concrete proof to the claims, many people still believe that when you use a certain Egyptian symbol as a tattoo, you will be spared from any harm.
Use
- The placement of Egyptian tattoos depend on how big the design is, or what kind of symbol is used in the design. Decide on the placement of your tattoo before going to any tattoo shop. The reason for this is to facilitate faster and more efficient tattoo procedure. After choosing your tattoo design, the next thing you should consider is where to put that particular tattoo. If you put …
Example
- For example, an Ankh tattoo will look great on the wrists or at the back of the neck. Since Ankh tattoos are usually small in size, it would fit the narrow space on your wrist. When you put it at the back of your neck, it will make you look sexier than ever. This is applicable to both men and women.
Appearance
- The Sphinx tattoo will look attractive when placed on the back or on the chest. This is because the ornate design of the Sphinx will be fully noticeable in those areas. The bigger the Sphinx is, the more attractive it becomes.
Preparation
- Before getting all excited on having your Egyptian tattoos, you need to prepare yourself. If this is your first time getting a tattoo, then you had better get a good nights sleep a night before the scheduled appointment. This will help you stay relaxed during the entire procedure.
Miscellaneous
- You shouldnt also forget to eat before going to your tattoo artist. You will need all the energy that you can get because tattoo procedures can be a bit painful. It would also help to bring a friend you can converse with during the entire procedure. Chatting with your friend will take your mind off the pain.
Cost
- Average Service Cost and Standard Prices of Egyptian Tattoos Egyptian tattoos have ornate and intricate designs. Normally, tattoos that have complicated designs are priced more than the regular ones. For black ink Egyptian inspired tattoos, it will probably cost about $100 $200 per tattoo. If you go to local tattoo shops near your area, then you might get your tattoo done at a lo…
Treatment
- There are several aftercare tips that you need to follow after getting your Egyptian tattoos. Right after getting your tattoo, the artist usually covers it with some sort of a thin bandage. Its highly advisable to leave this bandage on for at least 3 hours. After the first 3 hours, you can take the bandage and clean the tattoo area with water and soap. You must do this gently to avoid rubbin…