
Egyptian tattoo ideas include the scarab beetle and Cleopatra. Egyptian symbols like the Eye of Horus in the form of tattoos are believed to offer protection against evil forces.
Inking these tattoos into your body art can be a profound way to connect with the rich history of ancient Egypt. The civilization made significant contributions to science, mathematics, and philosophy, symbolizing a reverence for knowledge and the wisdom of the past.
1. Ankh Tattoo
Can you imagine anything cooler than a tattoo inspired by an Ankh symbol? The Ankh (the Key of Life) is an emblematic hieroglyph representing life and immortality. It features a looped cross with a teardrop-shaped loop at the top, resembling a key.
This iconic symbol was closely associated with various Egyptian deities, particularly Osiris, the god of the afterlife and rebirth, making it a popular choice for those seeking to connect with ancient Egypt's spiritual and mystical aspects. It serves as a reminder of the eternal cycle of life and a symbol of protection and good fortune.
2. Eye of Horus Tattoo
One of the minimalist Egyptian tattoo ideas is the eye Eye of Horus tattoo. Also known as the Wadjet, this symbol represents protection, healing, and wisdom. It is associated with Horus, the god of the sky and one of the most significant deities in their pantheon in Egyptian mythology.
The eye is adorned with distinctive markings, such as the eyebrow, the teardrop, and the swooping tail. This symbol is believed to be a source of protection and a talisman against evil forces, making it a fitting choice for those who wish to carry the same protective energy with them through their tattoos.
3. Scarab Beetle Tattoo
Are you thinking about getting a tattoo inspired by mythology? The Egyptian scarab tattoo is the perfect one to work with your ideas. Often referred to as the dung beetle, this symbol was revered in ancient Egypt as a symbol of transformation and protection.
Egyptians believed that the beetle's habit of rolling balls of dung represented the sun's daily journey across the sky, symbolizing the cycle of life and resurrection. It also played a pivotal role in the funerary practices of the time. Many Pharaohs wore scarab jewelry as a symbol of their divine rule and connection to the gods.
4. Cleopatra Tattoo
Cleopatra, the iconic Egyptian queen who reigned during the Ptolemaic dynasty, continues to captivate imaginations even centuries after her time. Her legacy is deeply intertwined with Egypt's rich history.
Her appearance with the traditional Egyptian headdress and attire symbolizes elegance and mystique. Cleopatra's enigmatic aura is often conveyed through her captivating gaze and her regal bearing throughout her life. This tattoo is not only pay homage to a historical figure but also serve as a symbol of empowerment.
5. Pharaoh Tattoo
The pharaoh tattoos are representations of the powerful rulers of ancient Egypt who were considered divine figures. These leaders were not just royal members of society but were believed to be gods on earth. The pharaoh symbolizes supreme power and unwavering leadership.
People who opt for pharaoh tattoos may see themselves as leaders in their own lives, possessing the strength and determination to navigate challenges and take charge of their destinies. This concept can be particularly meaningful for those who have experienced personal transformations or spiritual awakenings.
6. Egyptian Goddess Maat Tattoo
The Egyptian goddess Maat symbolizes balance and justice in ancient Egyptian mythology. She is depicted as a woman with an ostrich feather on her head, holding a scale and representing the concept of harmony and order in the universe. Her presence was believed to maintain the cosmic order.
In a world often marked by chaos and moral ambiguity, the tattoo can be a reminder to stay true to one's principles and uphold the ideals of Maat. It becomes a guiding light that encourages individuals to make choices that promote fairness.
7. Egyptian Hieroglyphs Tattoo
The Egyptian hieroglyphic tattoos include religious texts and monumental inscriptions dating back to around 3000 BCE. Each hieroglyph carries its unique meaning and can be combined to convey intricate messages.
This ancient civilization's intricate stories and beliefs continue to captivate the imagination, and hieroglyph tattoos are a way for people to connect with the magic and mysticism of Egypt's past. Tattoos featuring Egyptian hieroglyphs can hold profound significance for individuals, representing themes such as spirituality, protection, or even a connection to ancient Egyptian deities like Ra, Isis, or Anubis.
8. Nefertiti Tattoo
Did you know that the ancient Egyptian queen Nefertiti was the Great Royal Wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten? Nefertiti's tattoos depict her famous bust, discovered in 1912 and now displayed in the Neues Museum in Berlin.
The queen was renowned for her physical beauty and her influential role as queen and co-regent during her husband's reign. In this way, Nefertiti tattoos can be a means of celebrating both the allure of ancient Egypt and the strength and charisma of this legendary queen.
9. Egyptian Pyramid Tattoo
Have you ever considered turning the art of iconic structures, like the Great Pyramid of Giza, into a tattoo? This pyramid tattoo is all you need for your next ink inspiration. The pyramid's triangular shape signifies balance and harmony, making it a meaningful choice for those seeking equilibrium in their lives.
The construction of the pyramids remains a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the ancient Egyptians, and these tattoos can inspire individuals to reach for their own lofty goals and dreams, just as the pharaohs of old reached for the stars when they built their monumental tombs.
10. Bastet Tattoo
The feline goddess with the head of a domestic cat, the Bastet tattoo pays homage to a deity associated with love, fertility, and home. Her image inspires art, literature, and pop culture references, which can resonate with individuals seeking a tattoo that connects them to a timeless and iconic symbol.
Many people choose to get this tattoo to honor their love for cats or invoke Bastet's protective and nurturing qualities in their lives. This design also celebrates the beauty of the cats.
11. Anubis Tattoo
One of the famous Egyptian god tattoos is the Anubis tattoo. The Anubis is the Egyptian god of mortality. This design comes from the judgment scene from the Book of the "Dead" and is dated to be from around 1275 BCE. The design above is blended in a neo-traditional style.
Anubis is depicted as a jackal-headed deity and was the god of mummification and the afterlife in Egyptian belief. This iconic figure symbolizes protection and guidance for the deceased on their journey through the underworld.
12. Egyptian Lotus Tattoo
The blue lotus is a water lily that grows along the Nile River and is highly revered by the ancient Egyptians. For thousands of years, the blue lotus has been an integral part of Egyptian life and spirituality. Its soothing blue hue and association with the sacred Nile River have made it an emblem of tranquility and purity.
In Egyptian mythology, it was associated with the sun god Ra, who was believed to emerge from a blue lotus flower each morning to bring light and life to the world. Thus, the Egyptian Blue Lotus tattoo often represents spiritual awakening, enlightenment, and the cycle of life.
13. Horus Tattoo
With this tattoo, you carry with you the magic of Egypt's mythology, a testament to the enduring power of the gods and stories that have captivated hearts for millennia. Horus is the ancient Egyptian god of the sky who is depicted as a falcon-headed deity and is associated with protection, healing, and kingship.
Horus played a crucial role in the struggle against the chaos of Seth, symbolizing the eternal battle between order and chaos. His significance as a deity with strong moral and protective qualities represents your reverence for the ancient Egyptian civilization and the enduring legacy of its mythology.
14. Cartouche Tattoo
This tattoo design is adorned with hieroglyphic messages, much like the cartouches found in ancient Egyptian tombs and monuments. The term cartouche itself originates from the French word for cartridge, reflecting the oval or oblong shape that defines these tattoos.
The allure of cartouche tattoos lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their deep historical and cultural connections. They serve as a link to the mystical world of ancient Egypt, where hieroglyphics were used to communicate stories, beliefs, and identities.
15. Egyptian Snake and Dagger Tattoo
The snake is associated with protection and transformation in Egyptian mythology. It also symbolizes rebirth and renewal, representing the life cycle and mortality. In many ancient Egyptian stories, snakes were considered guardians of sacred places and treasures, making them a powerful emblem of protection.
In Egyptian culture, the dagger as been a symbol of strength and warrior spirit. It is often linked to the god Horus, the god of the sky and the protector of pharaohs. The combination of the snake and dagger in this tattoo design creates a harmonious balance between protection and strength.
16. Neith Tattoo - Egyptian Water Goddess
The Egyptian water goddess, Neith is portrayed as a powerful and nurturing deity, symbolizing the life-giving and sometimes destructive nature of water in the Egyptian civilization. Her name means water.
Neith's presence was deeply ingrained in the daily lives of ancient Egyptians, as they relied on the Nile River for their sustenance and prosperity, making her a revered figure in their culture. As people seek to reconnect with the mystique and symbolism of Egypt's rich history, Neith emerges as a captivating figure who bridges the gap between the past and the present.
17. Queen Hathor Tattoo
The Queen Hathor is depicted as a goddess of music, dance, love, and motherhood. Her image is characterized by the presence of cow horns and a sun disk, which symbolize her connection to fertility and the nurturing aspects of life.
The tattoo serves as a reminder of the power of femininity, love, and the arts, qualities that Hathor embodied and celebrated during her reign. It was also believed to connect the wearer to the afterlife, as Hathor was closely associated with the journey to the hereafter.
18. Thoth Tattoo
Thoth was a man with the head of an ibis or a baboon, he was a prominent deity in Egyptian mythology. He was known as the god of wisdom, writing, and knowledge, making him a patron of scholars, scribes, and those who sought to acquire wisdom.
Thoth played a role in maintaining the balance of the universe by recording the deeds of the people who passed away and acting as a mediator in disputes. This aspect of Thoth's character can be incorporated into the tattoo design to signify the importance of finding equilibrium in one's life, reconciling conflicting forces, and seeking resolutions to challenges.
19. Ra Tattoo
Ra is the Egyptian God of the Sun who is depicted as as a falcon-headed deity. He is one of the most important gods in the Egyptian pantheon. His association with the sun's life-giving and illuminating qualities makes him a symbol of light, power, and creation.
In Egyptian culture, Ra was also seen as the ruler of all creation, which can symbolize one's power to shape your destiny and bring light to life. Vibrant shades of gold, yellow, and orange can be used to mimic the radiance of the sun, while contrasting dark blues and blacks can symbolize the cycle of day and night.
20. Sphinx Cat Tattoo
Realistic, isn't it? The sphinx with a Dracula drape tattoo is made in a neo-traditional style. The Sphinx itself is a symbol of wisdom, mystery, and guardianship in Egyptian mythology. It represents the enigma of life's riddles and the timeless quest for knowledge.
The Sphinx is a symbol of perseverance, as it guards the entrance to the Great Pyramid of Giza, a testament to the enduring strength of human ambition. It encapsulates the mystique and grandeur of ancient Egypt while allowing for personal interpretation and customization.