For many centuries, and in many cultures, the image of a dog has been the emblem for a loyal and jovial spirit. They have also been seen as the protectors and companions of man. Dog tattoos are often meant to be a symbol of this; they are meant to show either these qualities in the wearer’s own personality, or their love of the animal itself.
Many dog tattoos are culled from real life images. These are often of the wearer’s own pet, and are usually done in a portrait style. Quite commonly, these pieces show the image of a dog in action; that is, running through a field, jumping to catch a ball, or rolling around on the ground. Sometimes these depictions are more aggressive and show the dog growling, perhaps even foaming at the mouth, or on the verge of attacking. Sometimes this
style is used as something of a memorial to a pet that has died, and show only the head, neck and shoulders alongside a name and possibly dates.
Some dog tattoos feature a more cartoon-like style. The features of the animal in this design tend to be more exaggerated, and they frequently exhibit human attributes. One of the most commonly used images show a goofy beast with large, shining eyes, pricked up ears, and a long tongue. A more aggressive variation is also popular, and is favored when creating an amalgamation between animal and human. They sometimes show a large, muscular upper body, and small, bent legs dressed in boots and blue jeans, often wielding a weapon.
You may also use a more elegant style of dog tattoos. These images range from simple outlines to something akin to the brilliantly colored Chinese Fu dogs. Fu (or foo) dogs are a few closely related breeds that resemble the ancient guardian lions of China. For this image you could take the visage of a chow chow (said to be the original model for the guardian lion), pekingese or even a pug, and create a male and female pair with large eyes, streaming mane and a ferocious expression. These are usually done in bold colors of reds, yellows, blues and sometimes greens. However, for a slight variation, you could use the natural colors of your preferred breed, and perhaps set off the natural hues with a vivid flash of red flame, or blue lightening in the background.
Although dog tattoos can feature a favored breed, they are most commonly used to express a special bond felt with a particular furry and endearing beast.
Related >> Animal Tattoos, Cartoon Tattoos, Cat Tattoos
Post from: Free Tattoo Designs & Patterns
Dog Tattoos
The reason why a person would get Navy tattoos seems pretty cut and dry; they either are in, or have a loved one serving in the Navy. However, with a long and colorful history known for its extraordinary body art, these themes have taken on an almost kitschy cult following. Either way, the symbols used in these pieces are steeped in significance.
Some of the most popular navy tattoos feature simple symbols such as anchors, nautical stars, compasses and birds. However, many people like to either combine the images to create a large maritime theme, or simply embellish one or two of these items. For instance, one could create a depiction of the anchor being thrown into the water, you could also make the anchor gold, and encrusted with jewels. Swallows or sparrows placed on either shoulder could hold a banner with names, dates, rank or simply large block letters saying ‘Navy.’
There are many Navy tattoos that are meant as talismans of protection. Like the swallows, — which are not only meant as something akin to a spirit guide, but also as a symbol of coming home no matter what — other birds and animals were used as emblems of safety at sea. One great example of this is a pig and fighting rooster on either foot to keep a person from drowning. Navy tattoos also symbolize accomplishments, and can be lifelong souvenirs from the places the wearer has visited; for instance, dragons were tattooed for serving in China; a quadruple knot in a rope represented sailing around the International date line, Arctic and Antarctic, and Equator; while a palm tree may simply have meant time spent in Hawaii.
Many Navy tattoos feature ships and all of their accoutrements, as well a variety of depictions of sailors, or people met during their trips. Heavily detailed boats across the chest were not unusual, and were often meant as yet another symbol of accomplishment. They were also regularly modeled often ships that the wearer sailed in. In this design, you could also use the image of crossed cannons, which are simply meant to represent service in the Navy. Images of scantily clad female sailors, hula girls and occasionally even geishas are some of the most frequently used archetypes for Navy tattoos. These are generally done in a pin up style; however, you could create a more modern, or lifelike depiction for your own variation.
Navy tattoos have become quite popular amongst civilians. However, they have been, and will always remain a symbol of pride and accomplishment to those in the service.
Related >> Military Tattoos, Nautical Star Tattoos, Pirate Tattoos, Sailor Tattoos, Swallow Tattoos
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Navy Tattoos
Sword tattoos are generally seen as both a symbol of danger and valor. Many men and women in the military also use sword tattoos as emblems of honor, justice and talismans of protection. However, a sword by itself is rarely seen; there are often many other symbols that tell a larger story.
Two of the most frequently seen symbols in sword tattoos are flames and wings. A sword engulfed in flames has a religious significance and is said to be an image of purification. Wings, on the other hand, are said to signify a certain ‘lifting up and away’ from danger, as swords are generally used as protection. Many people also like to surround their swords in softer images, like having a vine with flowers growing around the blade, or one or two swords piercing through a heart.
Many sword tattoos are part of a larger scene. For instance, a stylized depiction of two samurais locked in battle; a medieval knight, sword raised, charging ahead on his steed; or a courtly gentleman brandishing his blade. Some people also like to show the contrast of the fearsome weapon with the sensuality of a curvaceous female figure; she may be done in a variety of genres, such as a pirate, a warrior or simply placed in a delicate 1940’s garb.
Although infrequently seen, sword tattoos are occasionally done by themselves. This style can be shown placed gingerly upon the skin, or piercing through it. However you choose to place it, there are an endless amount of designs that you can use to really amplify the look. Many people like to use a realistic depiction; this style can have a wooden, or even a braid work leather hilt; a large, heavy pommel, and a long, sharp blade. You can also heavily embellish your sword by adding gems, a family crest to the pommel, a scroll work pattern to the blade, and maybe even metal wings or bones to the guard. For an interesting, but unrealistic appearance, many people like to use a design akin to tribal art. These pieces are usually done in black and have sharp, drastic lines. It is also fairly common to see a snake or dragon elongated and morphed into the image of a sword, or crosses and skulls worked into the hilt and pommel.
Sword tattoos can be done in a large picture or by themselves; but whichever way you choose to depict them, they are sure to add a certain tough, brave and honorable feel to all of your artwork.
Related >> Dagger Tatttos, Gun Tattoos, Military Tattoos
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Sword Tattoos
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