Egyptian Tattoo Ideas For Men and Women
- 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. ...
- Anubis – The Egyptian God of the dead. The ancient Egyptians always treasured the dead more than they appreciated the living. ...
- Ma’at – The Egyptian goddess of truth and justice. ...
Full Answer
What do Egyptian tattoos mean?
- Red stood for Life, Power and Wrath.
- Green symbolizes Life and Fertility.
- Blue represented Creation and Rebirth.
- Black evoked Death.
- Yellow was the color of the Pharaohs.
What are Egyptian tattoos?
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. ...
What is a traditional style tattoo?
- Traditional & Old School Tattoo Style: Traditional or Old School tattoos are what you think of when you think of classic American tattoos. …
- Neo Traditional Tattoo Style: …
- Tribal tattoo Style: …
- Watercolor tattoo Style: …
- Blackwork tattoo Style: …
- Realism tattoo style: …
- Japanese tattoo style: …
- Trash Polka tattoo style:
What does an Egyptian eye tattoo symbolize?
What does the Egyptian eye tattoo mean? The Eye of Horus (also known as The Eye of Ra) is a symbol of Egyptian origin that stands for health, knowledge, and power. In addition to health and power, it is also believed to give protection to its bearer. … 10 Related Question Answers Found
Did Egyptian have tattoos?
The find suggests, for the first time, that both men and women in ancient Egyptian societies had tattoos. Previously, archaeologists assumed that only women living during ancient Egypt's predynastic period, from 4000 B.C. to 3100 B.C., had tattoos. This theory was based on figurines that depicted women with tattoos.Mar 1, 2018
What did tattoos mean in ancient Egypt?
By tattooing in public regions of the body, the tattoos were intended to permanently mark the woman as associated with religious worship. 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.
What do the Egyptians think of tattoos?
Many Egyptians believed that tattoos not only provided medical protection, but also brought them closer to the gods. They saw tattoos as permanent amulets that paid tribute to their favourite god or goddess.
Did Egyptians have face tattoos?
Like facial makeup and perfume Egyptians also have a great history of tattoos as well. Ancient Egyptians used to paint their bodies with wonderful tattoo designs and had all kinds of different, unique designs they would tattoo on their bodies from their face to their feet.
What does an Anubis tattoo mean?
In Egyptian mythology, Anubis was a symbol of death and the Underworld. This print as a tattoo could represent your role of trying to fight off evil spirits and bad energy. You can also use this tattoo as your symbol of protection and power in your own spiritual way.Nov 16, 2021
What does a pharaoh tattoo symbolize?
Pharaoh was and still is, a symbol of power and exceptional ruling ability. It is one of the most common Egyptian symbols as well. That is why a Pharaoh tattoo would be an excellent way to celebrate ancient Egypt, since it is bold, outstanding, truly mysterious, and unique, just like a Pharaoh.Dec 30, 2021
What is the oldest tattoo on record?
Researchers have discovered the oldest figurative tattoos in the world on two 5,000-year-old mummies from Egypt.The oldest example of tattooing is found on the Alpine mummy known as Ötzi who is thought to have lived between 3370 and 3100 BC. ... Follow Pallab on Twitter.More items...•Mar 1, 2018
What called hieroglyphics?
hieroglyph, a character used in a system of pictorial writing, particularly that form used on ancient Egyptian monuments. Hieroglyphic symbols may represent the objects that they depict but usually stand for particular sounds or groups of sounds.
Who is the main god in Egyptian mythology?
1. AMUN-RA: The Hidden One. As Zeus was to the Greeks, the Egyptian god Amun-Ra or Amon was considered the king of the gods and goddesses.Nov 7, 2019
What culture started tattoos?
The earliest evidence of tattoo art comes in the form of clay figurines that had their faces painted or engraved to represent tattoo marks. The oldest figures of this kind have been recovered from tombs in Japan dating to 5000 BCE or older.Apr 13, 2010
What is a tribal tattoo?
What does a tribal tattoo mean? Tribal tattoos' meaning will change from culture to culture, and between designs. Many tell the story of the wearer's heritage, as well as achievements. They can also be a symbol of protection, power, and strength.
Is tattoo a sin biblically?
The Hebrew prohibition is based on interpreting Leviticus 19:28—"Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you"—so as to prohibit tattoos, and perhaps even makeup.
What does a tattoo represent in ancient Egypt?
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.
When did tattoos start in Egypt?
Tattoos in ancient Egypt may date back to the Pre-Dynastic Period (c. 6000 - c. 3150 BCE) based on evidence suggesting priestesses of the goddess Hathor would have had themselves so marked at that time. This claim is purely speculative, however. The most conclusive evidence of Egyptian tattoos found thus far dates the practice to the Middle Kingdom. Scholar Carolyn Graves-Brown writes how, "in 1891, two ancient Egyptian female mummies were uncovered from Middle Kingdom Deir el-Bahri; they bore tattoos of geometrically arranged dots and dashes" (113). She goes on to note that the tattoos on these women were the same as those found on Middle Kingdom fertility dolls and that, further, other female mummies were later discovered with similar markings.
Why were tattoos dismissed in ancient Egypt?
Because this seemed to be an exclusively female practice in ancient Egypt, mummies found with tattoos were usually dismissed by the (male) excavators who seemed to assume the women were of "dubious status," described in some cases as "dancing girls.".
What color were the tattoos on the mummies?
Based upon the tattoos on the mummies, the tattoo artists used a dark pigment of dye, most likely black, blue, or green, with little variation. The tattoo artists were most likely older women with experience understanding both the symbols & the significance of the colors used.
What is a tattoo in ancient Greece?
In ancient cultures such as Greece and Rome the tattoo was worn as a cultic symbol dedicating one to a certain god, as a brand symbolizing servitude, as a mark of a certain type of profession (such as a prostitute) or to encourage fertility or afford protection. In these cultures both men and women were tattooed but, in Egypt, ...
What does Bes mean by tattoos?
The origins and precise meaning of the tattoos, however, remain unclear (114). Bes was primarily a protector god of pregnant women and children but was also associated with sexuality, fertility, humor, and joy in life.
When were tattoos discovered?
One of the earliest (and possibly the oldest) pattern of tattoos in the world was discovered on the frozen remains of the man known as Otzi the Iceman who was buried in a glacier on the Austrian-Italian border c. 3250 BCE and discovered in 1991 CE.
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 does a tattoo represent in Egypt?
In general, Egyptian tattoos represent divine connections. Tattoos with this meaning usually include Egyptian Gods in the overall design. Egyptians are widely known as strong believers and faithful citizens to their Gods and Goddesses.
What does an Egyptian tattoo mean?
In general, Egyptian tattoos represent divine connections.
Why are Egyptian tattoos so popular?
One of the reasons why Egyptian tattoos are extremely popular even up to this day is because of its rich symbolic and ornate imagery.
What is the Egyptian culture?
Egyptians have a rich culture and history. Egyptians were among the many people who practiced ancient art. The Egyptians’ love for the ancient art is present in their structures, paintings and even tattoos. The thing about Egyptian art is that it uses symbols that are hard to decipher which make their art even more admirable and intriguing for many people worldwide.
What does a tattoo mean?
This symbolic tattoo is a part of numerous generations. A pharaoh was the one who ruled the ancient Egypt. A pharaoh is comparable to a king in the modern day setting. The Pharaoh has the highest authority and power during a specific era in the past. As a tattoo design, it means power and authority. Usually, the first and last Pharaohs of the land are the ones who appear in tattoo designs.
How much does an Egyptian tattoo cost?
For black ink Egyptian inspired tattoos, it will probably cost about $100 – $200 per tattoo.
What does it mean to get a tattoo of God?
If you get this kind of tattoo, then it would automatically mean that you believe in that certain God or Goddess. Many Egyptian tattoos serve as amulets or protection.
What does the Anubis tattoo mean?
Wondering about Anubis tattoo meaning? This is a tattoo of a two-headed dog. Anubis should watch over souls who have passed into the afterlife. Ancient Egypt has had many different interesting and unusual stories, and this is one of them.
How long does it take to get a mummy tattoo?
If you are not a fan of large, scary, and bold pieces – get something like this. This death-inspired tattoo will take 6 hours of your time, and it won’t hurt as much.
What is the eye of Horus?
The Eye of Horus is also known as The Eye of Ra , which is a well-known symbol in old Egypt. It represented health, as well as knowledge and power. It is a powerful symbol that also gives protection to its bearer.
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 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.
What is the Egyptian goddess of law?
Another very cool tattoo design from ancient Egypt is Flying Ma’at. Ma’at is the Egyptian goddess of truth, justice, and order, who represents law and morality. This Egyptian moon goddess is often shown controlling the heavens and the seasons. If are the one who value the realm of law, morality, balance, and justice then this tattoo design for you.
What is the history of Egyptian tattoos?
History of Egyptian tattoos. The ancient Egyptians are well-known to have created stylized and symbolic artworks on their tombs and monuments, however, they’re also now known to be some of the earliest recorded tattoo artists in history.
When were tattoos first used in Egypt?
The earliest Egyptian style tattoos date back to around 2000BC, about the same time that the pyramids were under construction. Mummies from this era have now been found that still have their tattoos visible. Tattoos are thought to have had a major role to play in Ancient Egyptian culture.
What is the name of the Egyptian god's tattoo?
Ra Or Horus – An Egyptian Gods Tattoo. The Eye of Ra and its partner, the Eye of Horus are two more very popular and famous ancient Egyptian symbols which are known and recognized all over the world. Still often seen in books and movies, they are also popular tattoo symbols thanks to their fascinating cultural heritage.
What is the symbol of ancient Egypt?
Ankh – A Popular Symbol. The ankh tattoo is one of the most recognizable symbols of ancient Egypt. Representing the sun, giving to the land all the energy and resources that it needs to thrive, this symbol also describes a connection between men and women and may even represent the key to life after death.
What is the meaning of the Eye of Horus tattoo?
Horus was the god of the sky, and the Eye of Horus tattoo is said to depict his left eye which gave the gift of life. Meanwhile, the Eye of Ra also once belonged to Horus.
What is the tattoo of a king?
Pharoah Tattoo – The Mark Of A King. An Egyptian king tattoo depicts a pharaoh since the pharaoh was the ruler of ancient Egypt, similar to one of today’s modern kings but considerably more powerful. In fact, the Pharoah in ancient times wasn’t only the ruler of the people, he was also seen as a god on Earth.
What does the Pharaoh's tattoo mean?
The pharaoh tattoo meaning is ultimate and supreme authority and power, indicating that the wearer is strong, powerful and is confident of their own abilities, being an excellent leader over others.
What does the goat represent in Islam?
Analogies with leonine motifs suggest that the goat form – as a symbol of the sun, like the lion and the rooster – is a ‘force’ that can be tamed by chaining it to a palm tree under the banner of Islam. Through its milk, hair and leather, the goat is a symbol of nurture, evoking in equal measure vitality, capriciousness and unpredictability. Perhaps because the animal climbs along the tops of mountains, to Christians it is often associated with strong vision. Given its status as a common form of livestock – especially when compared to camels, whose breeding is more prestigious – the goat may symbolize moderation and modesty. Finally, the goat is regarded as shameless, since, unlike sheep, its tail does not cover its rear.
What does the snake symbolize in dreams?
Beyond its well-known phallic undertones, the symbolism of the serpent is particularly complex. In the interpretation of dreams, as in proverbs, it appears essentially as an enemy and evildoer. Proverbs introduce other images, however: ‘If a snake comes to love you, wrap it around your neck’, one says. ‘Near to a scorpion, venture not, but near to a snake, make your bed and sleep’, says another. According to 9th century Muslim scholar Jahiz, along with the crab and the fish, the snake figures among the most respectable of God’s creations; it was said to be blessed with an extraordinary longevity and prodigious strength. Does this considerable power inspire these tattoos, or do the tattoos possess the ability to dominate such powers?
What does the fish represent in the Bible?
The fish often appears as a symbol of fertility, while to Copts it is associated with Christ; the Greek word for fish ( ikhthus) is the acrostic of Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour, who is also a ‘fisher of souls’. When appearing in the form of fish-shaped amulets, the symbol is both curative and protective. Through the image of a siren, a female aspect to the motif is incorporated, evident in the symbol of the bust of a woman emerging from the mouth of a fish.
Ancient Egyptians Tattoos as a Form of Art and Cultic Worship
Most scholars consider tattoos to be one of the earliest known forms of art appearing in various cultures. It has also been strongly suggested that tattoos have been used as amulets and had a religious or spiritual purpose. Ancient Egyptian mummy tattoos, most notably the aforementioned Gebelein mummies, seem to have had symbolic relevance.
Tattooing During the Middle Kingdom
Even though tattooing in Egypt dates back to the Predynastic period, the best-preserved ancient Egyptian tattoos found to date are from the Middle Kingdom period (c. 2040 – 1780 BCE), often considered as the golden age of ancient Egyptian art and culture.
Tattooing in Ancient Egypt: A Therapeutic Practice or a Form of Cultic Worship?
The birth of Egyptology dates back to the beginning of the 19th century and Napoleon’s invasion of Egypt, then a province of the Ottoman Empire. It would not be until the latter half of the 19 century that European archaeologists, scientists, and scholars became interested in Ancient Egypt.
How Did Tattooing in Ancient Egypt Work?
In a time before adequate tools and only a rudimentary understanding of how the human body worked, tattooing carried a certain risk, namely that of infection, which in those times could often prove fatal.
The New Kingdom Period and the Mummies of Deir el-Medina
Egyptian tattoos history spans more than thirty centuries, from the Predynastic times to the New Kingdom (c. 1550 – 1077 BCE), when Egypt reached the zenith of its power. Egypt’s capital during this period was located at Thebes in Upper Egypt.
Ancient Egyptian Tattoos Still Remain a Mystery
Evidence found so far strongly indicates that tattooing in ancient Egypt served both a practical and religious purpose. The great majority of tattooed mummies found to date belong to women and are connected, in one way or another, with the goddess Hathor.
Conclusion
Tattooing in ancient Egypt had both a practical (medicinal) and religious purpose. Women of all social classes choose to wear tattoos. In most cases, tattoos served as amulets to protect women during pregnancy and childbirth.
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.”.
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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 m...
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