Old-school tattoos carry more meaning than one might assume, acting as visual symbols of freedom and wanderlust. Sailor Jerry himself pioneered their creation – Norman Collins was known for pioneering this trend.
Skull Tattoos
Skull Tattoos symbolize an acceptance of death as part of life, yet can still be made less morbid by pairing it with other designs such as flags or flowers.
Eagle Tattoos
Eagles, as the United States’ national bird, symbolize patriotism and freedom. Additionally, they can be seen as solid symbols representing strength, nobility, and power – often juxtaposed alongside snakes as symbols representing good over evil. Eagle tattoos can also be an excellent way to honor someone you respect; make sure that getting this type of tattoo doesn’t violate cultural norms; get one that represents your beliefs instead.
Snake Tattoos
The snake has long been seen as a symbol of power, fertility, rebirth, and duality/balance; in Greek mythology, Asclepius carried a staff wrapped with two snakes to represent medicine and healing. Snakes can be combined with natural imagery, such as flowers, to form beautiful pieces representing transformation or rebirth. They may even be incorporated into a coiling pattern as a symbol. It can also be a powerful reminder to persevere, helping people face difficulties and never give up.
Pharaoh’s Horse Tattoos
Tattoos that depict traditional pharaoh’s horses symbolize struggle and victory for mankind. Their manes flow backward as an icon of humankind’s triumph after an exhausting fight for survival. The Pharaoh’s Horse Tattoo is an iconic image that dates back centuries and is often seen as a sign of strength, power, independence, and strength. It is a beautiful choice for anyone searching for a meaningful yet timeless piece. It can also include elements such as Fire, Waves, or Flowers, which all have unique meanings.
Shipwreck Tattoos
Shipwrecks are the remnants of ships that have sunk or run aground, often dramatically altering marine ecosystems and sparking epic stories about whalers or luxury cruise ships that run aground or sunken. American traditional tattoos frequently depict swallows to represent sailors’ travel across a 5,000-mile ocean. Sailors also get them as proof that they have successfully navigated Cape Horn at South America’s southern tip.
Panther Tattoos
Panthers are iconic characters from Sailor Jerry’s universe, representing strength and masculinity.
Hawaiian Motif Tattoos
Hawaiian Tattoos are famously renowned for their intricate designs and symbols. Combining geometric with organic forms, Hawaiian tattoos often convey specific messages. Tattoos incorporating swallows symbolize migration and homecoming; Sailor Jerry loved the islands so much that he often included them in his designs. Lady head tattoos represent femininity, romance, and the memory of someone special – such as your muse or lover.
Pin Up Tattoos
PIN-up Tattoos are a classic old-school style that symbolizes feminine beauty and signifies the rise of feminism since many previously sexualized women have proved that one does not need to look a sure way to be considered desirable and seductive. World War II saw them becoming widely used as morale boosters for sailors and airmen who felt homesick during combat service, as they reminded them of their girlfriends or wives back home. Female pin-up models typically wear bikinis or plain dresses, adorned with peacock wings or feathers in their hair, or use an abundance of seductive makeup.
Heart Tattoos
Heart tattoos have long been used as symbols of beauty, femininity, romance, desire, and good luck – often as reminders to sailors of home. American traditional tattoos feature bold outlines and bright, vivid colors – instantly recognizable by anyone, even without their design. If you want an American conventional tattoo, choose an artist familiar with this inking style – otherwise, your design could look amateurish and disfigured.
Nautical Star Tattoos
The nautical star tattoo symbolizes guidance, hope, and protection. Sailors used the stars as guidance when sailing dangerous waters, believing the north star would lead them back home safely. Today, it is a famous symbol of gay pride and represents an aspiration to be guided by those around you. Nautical star tattoos typically feature black shading, but you can customize your design to include colors with special meanings for even greater customization and personalization. This is an effective way of personalizing and tailoring the experience of wearing one of these stars on your body!
