8 Skull And Crossbones Tattoo Ideas For The Rebel In You

People have gotten skull and crossbones tattoos ever since tattoo art gained popularity in the medieval era. While pirates wore them on the sea as a sign of intimidation, many others flaunted them as a symbol of rebellion. However, in the contemporary world, the meaning of the symbol has started to vary. If this has got you eager to experiment with this design, you have landed on the right page. In this article, we discuss the meaning of this symbol and suggest a few unique tattoo ideas based on it. Keep reading!

Skull And Crossbones Tattoo Meaning

Skull tattoo designs in general reflect the rebellious spirit of the wearer. However, a skull with two crossed bones either in front of or behind it can symbolize different things. The history of this design can be traced back to ancient civilizations. It was first seen in ancient Egypt on the tomb of the Egyptian Pharaoh, Tutankhamun. The crossbones represented the staff and flail in a cross-diagonal layout that the Pharaoh was often seen holding during his life while the symbol together signified his power in the afterlife. In Italy, the skull and crossbones were discovered in various Christian catacombs dating back to the second century CE symbolizing death and passing from life. During the same period, the skull and crossbones symbol was used to represent the Latin term ‘Memento mori’ that was in vogue in Rome, which meant ‘Remember death’.

• In the early 12th-13th century, the symbol was used on the Jolly Roger, a pirate flag painted with skulls and crossbones that the pirates would use to identify their ship. Eventually, it became the nautical symbol often associated with pirates and danger.
• In the 19th century, it came to be adopted by a secret society and represented mystery.
• Today, the chemical industries use the symbol to label poisonous substances. It is used on power boxes to warn people and children of high voltage as it also represents danger.
• Skulls and crossbones as a representation of ‘Momento mori’ continue to be a worldwide trend as it emphasizes the value of seizing life before it slips away.
• It can also represent a bold heart and fiery spirit.

The skull and crossbones symbol changed connotation and became a popular tattoo subject among individuals who liked to rebel against societal mores, aligning with the spirit of pirates and other anti-authoritarian communities. Check out 8 exciting designs below and learn the meaning associated with them below.

Skull And Crossbones Tattoo Designs

Over time, the sign of skull and crossbones became associated with fearlessness and rebellion. They can be customized to suit your preferences. Let us explore a few unique ideas below:

1. Traditional Skull And Crossbones Tattoo

This black and gray traditional skull and crossbones tattoo has an edgy look to it. It represents your bold and fearless personality. Its location makes it noticeable while sending off a warning message to not mess with you.

2. Pirate Skull And Crossbones Tattoo

It offers a fun twist to the classic pirate skull and crossbones tattoo. This tattoo features the skull adorned with flowing whitish-cobalt blue hair. It also wears a pirate hat. The hair adds a soft and whimsical touch to this otherwise edgy tattoo, while the cheeky smile gives it a hint of mischief.

3. Vintage Skull And Crossbones Tattoo

The dark hollow behind the skull gives the tattoo an eerie aura while also creating an arresting contrast with the lighter shades of the skull making it pop. The realistic depiction of the skull, the cracks in it, and the vintage-themed shading create curiosity among the viewers and increase the appeal of the tattoo.

4. Small Skull And Crossbones Tattoo

This minimalist skull and crossbones tattoo is perfect for people who want to control when their tattoo is visible to others. Its bold outline and light shading add a softer edge to the rugged essence of the design. It warns others not to provoke the dangerous storm brewing behind your cool and sweet personality. However, the long-ish bones create some airy space around the design, achieving a sense of lightness and femininity in the otherwise dark theme.

5. Black Skull And Crossbones Tattoo

This tattoo makes excellent use of blackwork in contrast with the natural skin tone of the tattooed person to create a beautiful masterpiece. The permanent tattoo silently warns people to beware of you and not to invite your wrath. It also tells unwanted strangers that you are off-limits.

6. Old School Skull And Crossbones Tattoo

Old-school tattoos typically feature bold black outlines and traditional motifs, and this one is no different. This classic skull and crossbones motif with a biker twist, courtesy of the hat, has large and hollowed-out eye sockets and a nose to honor your confrontational nature. It is ideal for those who want to embrace their rebellious and strong personality.

7. Skull And Crossbones Finger Tattoo

This tiny skull and crossbones finger tattoo in black ink looks absolutely striking. The white highlight on the crossbones accentuates the design of the tattoo and gives it an edgy look. The tattoo is bound to hurt owing to its location, but the results are worth the pain. However, do keep in mind that finger tattoos generally fade faster due to how often we use our hands and the little details might wash out, so consider keeping the design solid and minimal.

8. Skull And Crossbones Hand Tattoo

This tattoo combines death with life. The flower with skull and crossbones symbol represents the Latin term ‘Memento mori’ which means that one must remember that one must die. The use of vibrant colors for the flowers against the simple black and gray of the skull shows this contrast of life and death to full effect. The flowers indicate the beauty of life while the skull and crossbones signify the inevitability of death.

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Eve PhillipsProfessional Tattoo Artist

   

Eve Phillips is an experienced artist in various tattoo styles, though she specializes in tattoos with fine details and floral elements. She has owned studios for 20 years in both Australia and the United Kingdom and has a wealth of knowledge and experience in all areas of tattoo art, health, licensing, trends, current issues, and history.

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Sangita GoelBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sangita is a content writer with a passion for exploring diverse genres. She has written 100+ blogs on an array of topics, including relationships, travel, beauty, and fashion. Armed with a master’s degree in history from Indira Gandhi National Open University, she has leveraged her curiosity to write captivating, engaging, and informative articles.

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