Meaningful Art: What You Need to Know about Nautical Tattoos
Many people think that tattoos are new, but they are not. This art had a religious meaning for the Ancient Egyptians and Syrians, while the Ancient Greeks and Romans tattooed their slaves, criminals, and prisoners of war. It separated them from the rest of society.
What is even more interesting is that nautical tattoos also have historical roots. You can learn more about this traditional tattoo in this article.
Historical Background
Nautical tattoos date as far back as the 16th century. They were mainly used by the sailors that traveled on ships, whose primary function was to guide, protect, and guide the sailors and the ships. For example, the Pacific Islanders and the Maori were the first tribes who wore these nautical tattoos.
There are multiple historical nautical tattoos, but the oldest is shot glass tattoos. It was initially used by sailors, who would put a shot of whiskey in the glass. Moreover, sailors love their booze, so the shot glass mark had a double meaning. It was a symbol of alcohol, but it has a nautical meaning.
Symbolism
Unlike modern tattoos, nautical tattoos have established meanings. You might want to ask traditional tattoo artists for the significance of the symbols before they put them on your skin. Here are some of them:
Swallow: Many confuse it with sparrows. This icon represents the 5000 nautical miles traveled. It is also known as a milestone. The swallow has traveled over 5000 nautical miles. Sailors would take the swallow tattoo when they had traveled that distance, and it was a way of documenting the journey done by the sailors.
Star: It is one of the most common tattoos found in nautical tattoos. This star is usually inked on the wrist, and nautical ropes and a compass accompany it. The star on the wrist symbolizes the north star. However, it depends on the sailors' preferences.
The star has a lot of meanings. It can represent the North Star, who would guide sailors through the night. It can also represent the Navigational Star, which guides sailors through the sea.
Anchor: As we have mentioned earlier, the sailors are guided and protected by the anchors, representing safety and protection. It symbolizes the sailors' protection. Traditional tattoo artists will tell you that the anchor saves them from drowning. The anchor is also a symbol of hope, so it must be inked on the wrist.
Compass: It is another essential tattoo used in the nautical tattoo. It represents both guidance and protection. The compass is usually used as a centerpiece in the nautical wrist tattoo. However, it is highly recommended that you talk to traditional tattoo artists if you want this tattoo on your body.
Conclusion
Nautical tattoos are thought-provoking and meaningful. The location of the tattoo also says a lot about its meaning. It is a good idea to have a nautical tattoo on the wrist because it is an approachable body part and will not conflict with your job, especially those who have desk jobs.
You should get your nautical tattoo only by certified traditional tattoo artists in Denver. We will lay out different designs for you, so that you will have meaningful artwork on your body. Visit our shop now!