When it comes to marvelous geometrical definitions, shadow work, and vibrancy, Egyptian tattoo designs will always remain the king (…or should I say Pharaohs!). However, sometimes, too many options when it comes to Egyptian tattoos for men can make you feel disoriented. Are you looking for Egyptian tattoos for men? Then you have reached the right place.
To minimize your confusion, we will give you the best designs depending on the places you want to get inked.
So, sit tight as we board the time machine, and bring back the best ancient Egyptian tattoos for men to be recreated in the modern 21st century!
Egyptian Tattoos for Men & Their Right Placement
Placement of the tattoo can sometimes supersede the design in terms of importance. Let’s take the example of Mandela art!
What is the best placement for a Mandela art tattoo?
You guessed it right!
Your upper back, chest, or underneath the breast (for woman). Any place on your body which will allow a certain symmetry for the art to shine.
Now, imagine getting a mandala art on your legs or your upper arms. Yes, the placement just doesn’t seem right.
So, here are some of the Egyptian tattoo designs that you can get based on your body part!
Your Upper Body
Let’s begin with your upper body when it comes to Egyptian tattoos for men.
1. Chest (Center)
Ma’at: This is the Egyptian goddess of truth. The tattoo design is the goddess dressed as a Pharao and spreading her birdlike wings on each side.
Egyptian Pyramid: the beautiful landscape of the pyramid. If you have a good tolerance for pain and take a few sittings, a good artist can stretch the landscape beautifully throughout your chest.
Egyptian Eye: An eye elegantly decorated with black kohl and is a symbolism of protection from evil eye. This could be great for the center of the chest, or either of the pecks.
Face of A Pharo: Speaking of Egyptian tattoos for a man’s pecks, the face of a pharaoh with all his grandiose pose and galore could be a regal choice. However, one needs to remember not every local artist can recreate this. You will need an expert to recreate this look.
Lower Torso
Anubis (Side Profile): With an intricate design and detailed face of the God of death, its perfect placement would be the side ribs. Yes, painful, so you will have to brace yourself for the long hours, and probably more than one sitting. Scared of needles, but still want a tattoo? Read more!
Back
Egyptian Sun: The Egyptian sun is a symbol of warmth, and growth. Plus, there are too many creative options. Especially if you like Mandela tattoos. On the other hand, you can also give your sun eagle wings on each side and turn it into winged sun which indicates “royal dignity” in Egyptian culture. Plus, they are a perfect design to create symmetrical tattoos.
Ankh: One of the most symbolic ancient tattoos in the Mesopotamian region. In ancient Egyptian time, this symbol was the “key of life.” It also denotes abundance in life. Position wise, it could be great underneath your neck, or on the back of your neck.
Spine Tattoo
Hierographic: Small hierographic symbols trail down your spine. This is not only sexy, but each symbol could have a different meaning. Or, they could have a collective symbolism (preferably explaining the ancient Egyptian script). However, these hierographic details will be extremely detailed, and since it is on your spine, it will be painful. Therefore, look for an expert artist who can ease the discomfort a little and give you a result worth the pain.
Side Torso
Let’s talk about another favorite body part when it comes to Egyptian tattoos for men… the side torso.
Egyptian Ra (Tribal Design): We have already spoke about the Ra design before. However, when it comes to the different tattoo designs for your side torso, or ribs, the Ra tattoo with a Polynesian tribal design chain can give you an elegant, and geometrically soothing design.
Sleeve Tattoo
Polynesian Tribal Design: Talking about Polynesian tribal design, if you want to go all the way in, and really commit to a design look for an Egyptian tribal design which is perfect.
It is an intricate design which will take time and will essentially cover the full sleeve. Again, be careful whom you give this responsibility to. The artist must know the assignment!
Face Of a Pharaoh: This is another conventional tattoo design but with the right detail and structure, you can add customization. For this, you will need to find an artist who has specialization in portrait art. Since one needs to be pedantic about the pen work (…needle work in this case).
Legs (Upper Thighs)
Finding attractive Egyptian tattoos for men when it came to legs was a difficult task. However, we did manage to enlist a few.
Band of Hyrography: If you do not want a full tattoo, then pick one circumference and get a band of your favorite hierographic symbols.
Cleopatra’s Face: For your upper thighs and detailed portrayed of Cleopatra could be the epitome of Egyptian tattoo designs. The mystic, and magic of one of the greatest Egyptian queens could be your next tattoo project.
Djed: Djed is an ancient Egyptian symbol that focuses on stability. Although the symbol literally means “Backbone of Osiris” (making it a good choice for your backbone), it will also fit the side of your leg perfectly.
Was Specter: Was specter being more of a dainty Egyptian symbol which is more of a feminine choice. However, if you place it carefully, and add some other details within, you can customize it into beautiful tattoos for men.
Cartouche: A powerful symbol of protection against evil spirits. So, any tattoo nerd out with a spiritual heart, the symbol of Cartouche covering the entire back of your leg will be perfect.
Egyptian Symbols – For Your Tattoo Preferences
When we think of “Egyptian tattoos for men,” the first thing that comes to us is ancient symbols. It is not always hydrographs (ancient Egyptian alphabets) but also ancient symbols of Egyptian kings and gods from Mesopotamian civilization.
Scriptures from the old Babylon to the Pharao dominance. So, here are some of the common Egyptian symbols that could be the inspiration for your next tattoo session!
Uraeus (The Egyptian Cobra)
Snakes are not a friendly symbol in today’s TikTok age. However, did you know king cobras in the Egyptian era always symbolized royalty, and kingship. In fact, it was a symbol bestowed on the Pharaos who almost had a godly status during the reign.
Therefore, if you are feeling particularly royal today. Why not get that symbol tattooed on your body?
Egyptian Ouroboros
An ancient Egyptian sun disk is also a symbol of rebirth. If you tend to round tattoos, this could be a good fit. Since the tattoo itself is of a minimal design (a snake eating its own tail), customization will be easier.
The back of your neck or the area under your neck would be appropriate places for the design to shine.
Feather Of Matt
The feather of Matt is another Egyptian symbol derived from a goddess of the ancient Mesopotamian era. Goddess Matt was responsible for providing justice in the land. Therefore, getting a Matt tattoo can show your beliefs towards things being fair and justified.
Plus, this is one such tattoo where you can play with color and vibrancy.
Deshret Crown
The red crown of the Egyptian era. It is symbolic of the lower Egyptian land; they were the lands of the goddess of Wadjet.
The symbolism is not very concrete, as it often denotes fertility. However, the geometrical design is quite intricate and a good choice for someone craving a small red tattoo for a change.
Ajet
A detailed Egyptian hierographic symbol that represents the natural horizon and the Sun. It also denotes the beautiful sunrise and sunset of the Egyptian desert. The entire design is an amalgamation of the sun at the center, two lions on each side facing away, and at the bottom are the mountains and sand dunes.
The lions also represent the onset of time coming and reminisce of the time that’s gone.
Nemyss – The Egyptian “Crown”
Did you know the crown or the headdress which we often see around the Pharaohs are called Nemyss.
Sometimes you do not need an entire facial detail of a pharaoh inked to make it Egyptian. A prominent Nemyss with vibrant colors can be one of your beginner Egyptian tattoos.
Is It Cultural Appropriation to Get Egyptian Tattoos
Body art has been a form of self-expression and cultural representation for centuries. Egyptians have a rich history of body art that dates to ancient times. From hieroglyphic tattoos to intricate henna designs, Egyptian tattoos for men hold deep cultural significance and symbolism.
However, in recent years, the debate surrounding whether getting an Egyptian tattoo as a non-Egyptian is considered cultural appropriation has sparked discussions.
To appreciate and understand Egyptian culture through body art in a respectful manner, here are some ways you can consider:
1. Research the Cultural Significance
Before committing to getting an Egyptian tattoo, it is important to do your research on the cultural significance behind it. Each symbol or design holds specific meanings and may vary depending on its placement on the body.
Understanding these symbols will not only help you make an informed decision but also show your respect towards the culture.
2. Consult with an Expert
Getting a permanent mark on your skin is a big decision. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult with experts before making any impulsive decisions when it comes to getting Egyptian tattoos for men.
Consulting with an experienced tattoo artist who specializes in traditional Egyptian designs can guide you toward culturally appropriate choices while incorporating your personal preferences.
3. Educate Others
Once you have a design in mind and are getting it done, it is essential to educate others who may ask about its cultural significance.
This practice will not only inform others about the rich history of Egyptian body art but also dispel any misconceptions or stereotypes associated with it.
Appreciating and understanding Egyptian culture through body art can be a respectful way of embracing diversity while avoiding cultural appropriation.
By educating ourselves and seeking permission, we can celebrate the beauty of this ancient art form without causing harm.
Do you agree with our list of Egyptian tattoos for men? Did you get any? Let us know in the comment section below!
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