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Loki is almost always presented as a malevolent creature, so it’s popular among those who want to come across as bad boys. Loki is usually designed as a man with a horned head and some skeletal features. Why do people get Odin tattoos? Because they stand for nobleness, principle, and a strong reputation. 8.Probably the most popular of all, he’s usually depicted as a strong man with thick, braided hair and a horned helmet.
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Since much Viking and Nordic artwork and lettering consisted of wooden carvings, knotwork and runes, keeping things crisp and sharp is essential for truly paying homage to this proud and fierce part of your ancestry. This is true across virtually every genre of tattoo. Quality linework and shading make up many of the best Viking tattoos, while weak lines and blotchy fades tend to create Norse tattoos to avoid. The world of blackwork encompasses many specific components, from artistic styles to techniques like dotwork. Valkyries have long been popular tattoo subjects among modern day soldiers, and the massive popularity of certain super–hero movies, has reignited interest in these stunning but deadly female seraphs. In the Norse tradition dying in battle was the highest honor so Valkyries and their role as “chooser of the slain” are powerful symbols of protection, purity and honor. These warrior angels choose who dies and who lives in battle, then accompany the fallen to the afterlife in the hall of the slain, Valhalla. One unique character in the violent Viking history is the Valkyrie. Longship tattoos are a fitting way to show one’s connection to Vikings history. For this reason, it is not uncommon to see them inked into a Viking tattoo. Needless to say, the Viking ship was a vital part of life and culture. Traveling primarily by sea, the Vikings often navigated the fierce waters in their trademark longships. One of the many things Vikings remembered for in our modern times are their means of transportation. That being said, not everyone is required to cover their tattoos by their work or other responsibilities, so to them, the arm might be an even more attractive as a spot to place their next Viking tattoo design. Simultaneously, it is a relatively simple spot to cover up if need be, assuming one is comfortable wearing long sleeves. The arm is a great place to show off any Viking culture tattoo, as it is in an easily viewed area. Whether the tattoos are a depiction of the Vikings themselves – bloodthirsty berserkers from a Viking ship wearing a horned helmet – or tattoo symbol of these great warrior’ mythology, an arm tattoo is an ideal location for storytelling.
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Precise linework and, in many cases, shading is crucial for this type of Viking era tattoo.Īrm tattoos inked in the Nordic genre come in a wide variety of styles. Nordic knotwork does not have to use one continuous line, and often makes a person, animal or object the star of the design instead of the knotwork itself. While Celtic knotwork features a never-ending line bent into a circular or other design, the Norse took a slightly different take. When Vikings began to invade and colonize these lands – between 6 AD – they adopted some of these popular patterns into Viking design. You may associate knotwork with Celtic history. Remember that precise linework is essential for a bold Viking compass tattoo idea. These can be used to spell out the name of a place you’re headed, the place you call home, or the name of a loved one. In addition, it can help get travellers where they’re going, even if they don’t know where that might be.Ī Vegvisir tattoo often incorporates runes at the end of each line. Only mentioned in one Icelandic manuscript, it supposedly keeps the wearer (or bearer) safe in all types of horrific weather and keeps them from getting lost. The Viking compass – known also as Vegvisir – is a bit of a mystery.
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