
On the one hand, daggers are weapons used for quick results, often as a last resort. The symbolism of traditional dagger tattoos varies from person to person. As such, panther tattoos can represent a sense of courage and guardianship, in addition to their masculine traits. However, as well as being powerful predators with razor sharp teeth, panthers are also extremely loyal and protective of their families. Just like wolf tattoos of the same style, traditional panthers are portrayed as ferocious, snarling animals. These designs have an air of mystery and symbolise a free-spirited nature.

Gypsy women are one of the most popular American traditional portrait tattoos, with distinct patterned headscarves and hoop earrings. Rather than a realistic portrayal of a person, traditional portraits accentuate certain features and tend to include big eyes, long lashes and retro hairstyles. As sharks move continuously and sailors are always travelling, there’s also some synergy between the two there. In terms of symbolism, they can be a sign of bravery or of protection against the perils of the sea. While they’re often designed with pointed fins and sharp teeth, old school sharks tend to be more cartoonish than frightening. Sharks American traditional shark tattooĭespite being a real threat to sailors through history, sharks are a popular traditional tattoo icon. However, they may also be depicted as being pierced by a dagger which can signify heartbreak or betrayal. They are therefore often paired with “mom” or a sweetheart’s name in a banner. Usually coloured a bright shade of red, classic heart tattoos symbolise love or adoration. Hearts are some of the most common American traditional tattoos out there. Hearts Traditional heart tattoo with banner They can act as a positive reminder to stay on the right path in life or provide reassurance that no matter where you are right now, you’ll get to where you’re meant to be in the end. Compass tattoos can therefore represent a love of travel or be more meaningful. Compasses Traditional compass tattooĬompasses provide direction for travellers, keeping them on the right course so they don’t get lost. If that resonates with you, this could be the American traditional tattoo for you. They are skilled hunters with strong survival instincts and determination, and they’re also pack animals with strong family bonds. However, wolves are also highly symbolic creatures. Often depicted snarling, traditional wolf tattoos can look aggressive and slightly cartoonish on the surface. More broadly, ship tattoos can symbolise a love of travel, your journey through life or the navigation of turbulent waters.

This style of tattoo is said to represent both adventure and the longing to return home.
#Clipper ship american traditional full
Traditional ship tattoos often feature Sailor Jerry’s classic clipper ship designs with full sails, which are much more aesthetically pleasing than modern-day ships. Ships Traditional ship with banner tattoo As such, they can be seen as a warning not to cross someone or they may be used as a protective symbol to ward off evil. American traditional snake tattoos are often depicted coiled and ready to strike, with their venomous fangs exposed. Snake tattoos can have a whole host of different meanings, from virility to transformation and renewal. Plus, as migrating birds, swallows also symbolise the broader concept of returning home to loved ones. There is a belief that if a sailor dies at sea, their soul is carried to heaven by birds. However, what they represent is even more significant.

For that reason, they are often depicted with names in banners in tribute to someone special.Īnother nautical themed tattoo, swallows were traditionally tattooed on sailors one they’d travelled 5,000 miles at sea. On a deeper level, they symbolise the things or people in your life that keep you stable and grounded. Anchors Traditional anchor tattooįeaturing lots of black shading to replicate dark metal, flashes of colour and often a looped rope, traditional anchor tattoos have clear nautical connotations. Some would even have them styled to look like the woman they loved. An exaggerated, idealised version of the feminine form, sailors who wouldn’t have any female company for months would get pin-up girls tattooed on their arms before voyages.

Pin-up girls Traditional pin-up girl tattooĬharacterised by their sexy curves and blush cheeks, pin-up girls are a highly distinctive American traditional tattoo.
