Tattoos Symbolizing Criminal World
The tattoos on this man’s body have specific meanings within the criminal world. He belongs to Vor v Zakone, a traditional criminal fraternity with strict ethics and behavior codes. These tattoos signify membership, rank, and loyalty toward fellow thieves.
Madonna and Child
The Madonna and Child painting depicts Mary holding Christ as an infant, commonly displayed in Christian churches as part of religious art. It is made using tempera, an oil-based pigment mix, and typically shows Mary carrying Christ on her back while holding him with one arm.
Tattoos as Signs of Gang Membership
In Russian criminal jargon, tattoos signify belonging to specific gangs or clans. They can also indicate a rank within these groups and express loyalty towards fellow thieves.
Eagle
The Russian Eagle symbolizes national pride and appears on the country’s flag, coat of arms, and national monuments. The two heads of the eagle represent unity and sovereignty, while the orb and scepter in its claws symbolize imperial power. It is a popular design motif in Russian tattoos.
Tattoos’ Evolution in Modern Russia
While tattoos were once used by criminals and convicts to signal status within the prison hierarchy, nowadays, young Russians tend to evaluate tattoos based on aesthetic considerations rather than demonstrating national loyalty.
Russian Coat of Arms
The Russian Coat of Arms features a golden two-headed eagle on a red heraldic shield, representing Tsarist power over the country. It also includes a silver rider on a horse, slaying a black dragon beneath. Six upper escutcheons depict different regions.
tattoos with Cathedrals
Tattoo symbols featuring churches signify allegiance to religion, while tattoos with multiple domes could indicate significant prison terms served. The number of crowns might even serve as a ranking system among criminals.
Meaning of Cat Tattoos
A cat tattoo represents a criminal’s fortune, prudence, and speed. A bared or jumping cat head indicates involvement in a cutthroat activity, while various cat tattoos can mark criminal status within criminal societies.
