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Anchor tattoo sketches
As you might guess, the meaning of the anchor tattoo goes into the nautical theme.
The meaning of the anchor tattoo is success, stability, hope.
Tattoos with this symbol are supposed to protect sailors during a long journey to help them return home safe and sound.
Many of those who wear an anchor tattoo put a slightly different meaning into it.
In their case, the anchor means home. This is a place where you can always return. Therefore, such tattoos can be found not only among the owners of marine professionals, but also among ordinary people.
In addition, the anchor resembles a cross in its shape.
In this regard, this symbol can be applied religious meaning.
The anchor is primarily for those who are connected with the sea, such as sailors, travelers, residents of coastal cities and countries.
But this story can also have a symbolic meaning and symbolize for home, safety and the universe.
The anchor is often used in the national symbols of many coastal countries.
Anchor tattoos are perfect for people who love the water and swimming, or are not looking for the sea of life.
The meaning of an anchor tattoo goes back several thousand years.
It has retained its popularity from the very first pirates to our Marines and the US Coast Guard.
It has been adopted as a symbol of love for the sea by thousands of sailors and pirates.
In general, the meaning of an anchor tattoo is hope, safety, salvation, strength and caution, luck and fidelity, stability and confidence.
The meaning of symbols in different cultures
During the Renaissance, the art of the anchor was often depicted along with dolphins, as two opposites: Dolphin - a symbol of speed and playful, and the anchor - braking and action.
In addition, the anchor may be an artistic tribute to some of the sea creatures or deities.
The top of the anchor often resembles a cross, so it has some connection to the Christian religion.
Anchor was one of the first symbolic signs of the early Christians, it was often depicted on tombstones in the catacombs. And first of all, it symbolized the hope for the salvation of Christians.
The image of the anchor is already present in the writings of the Apostle Paul to the Jews. Later, the anchor, as a symbol of security, became the emblem of St. Nicholas.
The anchor in Egyptian art is presented as a symbol of the universe, or the intersection of the Union of male and female.
In many countries, especially in the Mediterranean, the anchor was associated with images of sea deities:
- Neptune - Roman god of the sea (Poseidon in Greece);
- Amphitrite is a Greek goddess who protects sailors and creates dolphins;
- Triton is a mythological creature, half human and half fish;
- Varuna - The Indian god of the sea, who traditionally took people under his wing and died in the sea.
So what does an anchor tattoo mean?
Strength and stability - an anchor is what keeps a ship or boat in one place, even in bad weather.
Therefore, the image of an anchor often symbolizes the spirit and willpower;
Strength and endurance - the anchor holds the ship, even in the strongest storm.
Anchor tattoo is associated with the unique abilities of a person to endure everything in order to endure all adversity;
Faith and devotion - this meaning goes beyond the design of the anchor.
An anchor keeps the ship in place despite bad weather conditions, an anchor tattoo often symbolizes devotion to the person you love;
The connection of two principles - the ancient Egyptians believed that the anchor is a symbol of the connection of male and female character.
Its lower part is the female principle, the upper part is the male.
Therefore, another meaning of the anchor tattoo follows is life.
Girls can choose the following places for a tattoo:
Wrist;
Underbelly;
Boys choose more traditional places:
ribs;
What style is better to get a tattoo?
Anchor tattoo can be done in different styles.
It is very common to see a Celtic anchor or a simple tribal style anchor.
This design is concise and does not allow for the presence of additional elements.
However, other components such as flowers, ropes or a heart can be added to a simple image.
Popular tattoo options
Anchor and heart are one of the most popular images for lovers.
Anchor and Rose symbolize love, honor and selfless self-sacrifice.
Anchors and rope (chains) - usually produced by people associated with work at sea.
Anchor and cross is a combination of closeness to Christ and is often referred to as the “cross of hope”.
Today, you can see anchor tattoos anywhere on the body of both women and men.
Due to its compactness and conciseness, this image can even be put on a finger. This is what some young couples do when they exchange vows. Instead of wedding rings, they get a small tattoo on their ring finger.
If we look at any photo or sketch, we can see that the anchor image is always done in different styles.
It can be an anchor, without unnecessary elements, or a combination, Dolphin,
with ropes
with abstract patterns.
There are many motifs in tattoo art that have a rich history and deep symbolism. One of them is a sea anchor. These attributes appeared in the time of the Sumerians (2000 - 2500 BC), so they are one of the oldest motifs in body art. And the reasons for this are clear: such a tattoo not only looks beautiful and spectacular on the body, but also carries a number of symbolic meanings. In the article, we will analyze what an anchor tattoo means, and also consider female and male sketches and photos of finished works.
Symbol history
In the 16th century, when the British fleet defeated the Spanish, the British began to use the anchor as a symbol to identify the soldiers of the navy. Later, anchor tattoos became very popular among ordinary sailors. Brave people who crossed the dangerous Atlantic Ocean got tattoos to show their achievements. Today, many choose this motif to convey their love for the sea.
Anchor tattoo - meaning
Anchor tattoo is the perfect piece of jewelry for people who want to express their love for the water element. Also, a tattoo is an excellent choice for those who constantly travel or work away from home.
The anchor keeps the ship stable in the water, so a tattoo with this motif can symbolize strength and safety.
The anchor tattoo has a meaning that can be interpreted in different ways, depending on the style of execution and the presence of complementary elements. As a rule, it means:
- honor;
- protection;
- the rescue;
- tolerance;
- safety;
- enlightenment;
- hope and faith;
- strength and stability;
- family values;
- love for the seas and oceans.
Although tattoos are most often associated with the sea, they can also be interpreted in a religious context. Today there are more than 2 billion Christians in the world, but earlier, people of this faith were much smaller, and, moreover, they were persecuted for their beliefs. Christians wanted to avoid persecution, so they began to use the anchor symbol instead of the cross to show their religious affiliation. Thus, this ship's attribute has become an important religious symbol, representing hope, confidence and salvation.
Anchor tattoos in various combinations and their meaning
Often, male and female tattoos are depicted along with additional elements: hearts, flowers, ropes, crosses. This is done in order to clarify what a particular tattoo actually means. Let's take a closer look at some combinations.
Anchor in combination with the Rose - love, honor, fidelity.
Roses are the symbol of the Greek goddess Aphrodite (she is often depicted with a headdress of roses), so this combination can be used to show love and beauty. However, in a religious context, the tattoo can represent the sacrifice of Christ. Basically, this motive is common among girls.
Anchor combined with the heart: love, compassion, strong relationships.
The heart, combined with the main element, means strong love relationships, as well as stability and security in personal life.
Anchor combined with a rope or chain: love of the sea, hope.
Men often use the image of an anchor in combination with a rope or chain as a tattoo. As a rule, such a drawing symbolizes love for the sea.
The value of the tattoo on the zone
There are no negative values for the anchor image. In general, a tattoo on the body of a criminal means a kind of burden in the form of a term that he is serving, and hope for a brighter future. A person with such a tattoo is distinguished by a strong character and willpower.
Anchor tattoo sketches
This symbol looks great in any performance: from realism to trash polka, so this motif has no restrictions in execution. If you want to put a beautiful anchor on your body as a talisman, the minimalist style is perfect. The romantic meaning successfully conveys the direction of the old school. A deeper meaning reflects a drawing made in a realistic way.
For girls
Girls choose more feminine sketches that are applied to the wrist, collarbone or ankle. Women's drawings are distinguished by the presence of bright colors, minimalism and small size. The photo below shows original ideas for women.
For guys
Guys choose larger sketches that are placed on the arm, on the leg or on the chest. Basically, tattoos are depicted in the style of old school, realism, watercolor.
Paired
This symbol is widely used as couple tattoos for lovers, as it denotes a strong and stable relationship. Often the sign is applied to the ring fingers, wrists or forearms. These places are open to others and allow the most successful way to convey the beauty and deep meaning of the tattoo.
Anchor Tattoo associated with a two-horned metal structure. However, in ancient times, the ship's sinker looked different. First, stones were used. They were tightly tied with a rope - that's the anchor. The model was suitable for swimming not far from the coast. Starting to move away, they began to secure themselves and drill holes in the boulders.
The rope no longer went around the stone, but was inserted into the hole. However, it was not possible to keep a large ship in the open sea with stones. Therefore, 3,000 years ago, the Malays invented the one-horned anchor. He "bite" into the bottom, fixing the ship. Sometimes, the sinker lay flat on the bottom. I had to take out the device and throw it again.
Looking at this, in the first millennium BC they made a two-horned anchor. The model familiar to us was invented by the Chinese. And the notion became a symbol of support and confidence. Anchors have other meanings as well. We invite you to familiarize yourself with them.
The meaning of the tattoo "Anchor"
Meaning A symbol is related to its shape. The early Christians saw in the outlines the sinker of the cross. So the anchor became one of the hidden signs of Jesus, salvation. Believers mean the salvation of the soul. For people far from religion, tattoo "Anchor" - photo indicating the literal deliverance from dangers. The drawing is considered as a talisman. The picture also represents trust. The image of ship sinkers is often applied to their bodies by friends, relatives and lovers.
Married couples apply paired ones also because the anchor serves as an alternative to the yin-yang sign. The lower part of the sinker represents a woman, and the upper part represents a man. They are in harmony, like the spheres of the eastern symbol.
In addition, the anchor is perceived by lovers as a limiter. The device holds the ships, which means it is able to hold feelings, not to give in to the temptation to cheat on a loved one.
The connection in the form of a ship sinker of the feminine and masculine principles is spoken of in the mythology of Ancient Egypt. What does anchor tattoo mean? from the point of view of the ancients? They saw in the device a boat - a symbol of a girl's womb and a phallus.
The latter was understood as the upper part of the anchor. It often depicted a snake. For the Egyptians, she was a sign of life and was called Ouraboros. In the legends, he devoured his own tail, which constantly grew back. And so the symbol of cyclicity and eternal existence was “born”.
There is another answer to the question which means anchor. Tattoo can serve as a "magnet" for wealth. Drawing attracts money, since it has been a part of them for many centuries. So, the ship's sinker was depicted on the coins of the period of the reign of Titus. This is one of the Roman emperors. Banknotes with anchors were also minted in the port cities of Alexandria, as well as Antioch.
Anchor tattoo for men
Historically, anchor tattoo on arm- men's cap. Sailors were the first to wear it. Women were not allowed on the ships. This was considered a bad omen. Sailors adopted the tradition of underwear painting from the inhabitants of Polynesia. Of the Europeans, the Cook's team visited its islands for the first time.
Travelers liked the coloring of the natives. The sailors returned home with tattoos. Among them was Anchor tattoo. On the wrist, chest, shoulder picture was regarded as a talisman. The ship people believed that the image of the sinker would help him not to get lost in the sea, to set foot on solid ground again.
Modern men, in the same way, are considered as a sign of connection with the waters. In addition to sailors, scuba divers, surfers and those who live on the ocean began to use the symbol. In the old days, a tattoo with a ship's sinker had to be earned - to cross the Atlantic. Now, the restrictions have been lifted. You may never go to sea, but love it.
Tattoos with anchors are also ordered by guys who are far from the sea and the interests associated with it. For them, the picture becomes the personification of stability. Drawing is used by those who do not like to take risks, have already found their niche in life. By the way, risk denial is recognized with two anchors, or a sinker with 4 prongs. In Olympian Odes, Pandarus says: “During a storm, the smart ones throw two anchors.” The book is dated 472 BC.
Anchor tattoo for women
In the 21st century, ladies request anchor tattoos at least as often as men. As proof, here are some famous examples. Ship sinkers are displayed on the bodies of Hilary Duff, Miley Cyrus and Kate Moos. In the latter, it is located on the right hand in the forearm area. The model says she tends to get attached to people. As a symbol of such an emotional connection, Kate chose anchor.
Tattoo sketches Kelly Osbourne and Beth Ditto were also chosen with anchors. Both girls added weights with inscriptions dedicated to their mothers. The result was compositions that indicate love for home, family. It is immediately clear where the celebrities "dropped" the anchor, and which pier they want to return to.
Anchor tattoos attract ladies due to their small size. The sinker is simply in shape, not burdened with a mass of details. The picture does not require much space, fits on the finger, earlobe, neck, ankle, wrist. Such tattoos look neat, elegant. The image becomes a fashion accessory, and not an imitation of clothing covering a good part of the body.
The shape of the anchor allows you to use it as a pendant for a bracelet, chain. You don't have to wear real jewelry. They can also be drawn. The tattoo will not catch on clothes, will not be washed away by the sea wave, will not become a bait for robbers. In addition, a tattoo decoration will be created according to your sketch. In the store, you will have to choose from existing samples.
Women's tattoos with anchors are often complemented by heart bows, rosebuds and lilies. Feathers are also put in a duet to the ship sinker. They are usually attached to the top of the anchor instead of a rope. Additions are often colored. The sinkers themselves are also colorful. For men's tattoos, this is not typical.
Girls color tattoos to reflect not only the philosophical meaning, but also their emotional state. Cold tones, as a rule, speak of a desire for calmness, tranquility. Warm colors give out excitement, a thirst for communication and new experiences.
Who among us does not know the anchor tattoo? Even our grandfathers lived at a time when this drawing was a classic for a long time.
As Christianity spread throughout the world, the anchors took on the shape of a cross. That is, we got a jumper at the top. It is a symbol of salvation, hope. For the first time, figurative use was used in the texts of the Apostle Paul, and then they began to attribute it to the image of Nicholas the Wonderworker (aka Nicholas the Pleasant, 270 - 343 AD).
The Egyptians also had a similar sign. He united male and female, symbolized the universe as a whole. So you can call the anchor one of the space symbols.
There are also references to such sea deities as Neptune, Poseidon, Varuna, Amphitrite.
In the Renaissance, the anchor and dolphin plot appeared, denoting the combination of speed and deceleration, slow and fast. Hurry slowly.
Approximately two hundred - three hundred years ago, the tattoo of an anchor became traditional for Western sailors. This is a kind of tribute to the sea. They believed that in this way one could receive the "blessing of the sea element." Even in the heyday of Christianity, people were very superstitious, and if they did not worship the forces of nature, then they tried to propitiate them somehow.
Let's move on from historical definitions to modern ones. What does this guy's picture mean? In our time, for men, the definition is simple - the love of travel, or the sea, the search, or finding a place where they are ready to "anchor", that is, settle, put down roots, start a family.
The meaning of the girls is simple. This is devotion, reliability, fidelity to a husband / boyfriend, or to some important ideals, goals, dreams.
Often, paired tattoos are made for lovers, indicating that both people are confident in the seriousness of their feelings and the duration of the relationship. If you are windy people, not prone to constancy, such a tattoo can psychologically help correct the situation.
Prisons and the army always have their own laws regarding tattoos. For example, the meaning in the zone is associated with the hope of liberation and the fearlessness of a person.
Water is the element of freedom and movement. That is, the complete opposite of the restricted position characteristic of prisoners.
Army tattoos are more prosaic. If a person served in the Navy, he often tattoos the anchor of the Navy of his country. In Russia, the emblem of the fleet is two intersecting thin anchors, which are held in their tenacious paws by a golden double-headed eagle. In the center is a shield with George the Victorious, over which a golden crown is set.
Some people think anchoring is bad. After all, it means bindings that modern gurus and psychologists advise to abandon in order to gain freedom and tranquility.
But let's try to imagine a world without stability, reliability, any principles and obligations. It is unlikely that these gurus could live in it.
Anchor Tattoo Styles
There are many styles in which an anchor tattoo can be depicted. Some have been around for hundreds of years, others are just gaining popularity. If you stick to a certain direction, then it makes sense to do all the tattoos in the same style. This will make for an effective composition.
Imagine for a moment a sailor with an anchor made in the traditional technique, next to which there are watercolor stains, some trash polka art, a couple of Celtic ornaments, etc. He would simply be laughed at by other sailors.
To get a beautiful and holistic overall picture, you should combine drawings in meaning, scale, style, etc. Otherwise, you will turn into a living exhibition of drawings by artists drawing in different directions.
But from discussions about how best to proceed, which are subjective, let's move on to the practical side of the issue. Here are several options for you to choose from:
- Graphics and black and white - for those who do not like bright colors, used to modest and monochromatic images;
- Drawings created in realism will appeal to those who are accustomed to accuracy and specificity;
- Stylish dotwork is the choice of people who like a non-standard approach;
- Laconic and simple minimalism was created for pragmatic people;
- Traditional and old school for tattoos in a classic style. If you want canonical drawings on your body, these two options are the most suitable;
- Beautiful color pictures in watercolor style will appeal to those who clearly disagree with the people who chose the first item. Such sketches look spectacular and beautiful. To create them, blue, red and other colors and shades are used.
This is a short list, which everyone can supplement for themselves with those techniques that they personally like.
On the Internet, you can find millions of photos with an anchor tattoo of all sizes, shapes and colors. On them you can see that this plot is popular not only among experienced sailors and fishermen, but also among young people, for whom the sea is associated with beaches, yachts and tanned beauties / beauties. For the old captain, this symbolism is not seagulls over the resort, and not the series "Baywatch" with actors of model appearance, but severe trials, farewell to relatives, the joy of returning to land, etc. In fact, this is a sign of his whole life.
Where to place an anchor tattoo
Men have several traditional areas on the body where you can see such tattoos. These are areas on the wrist and forearm. Some depict an anchor, or even behind the ear. Some mottos and slogans in English or Latin are often written nearby.
Sailors often tattooed an anchor, or chest. Also plot pictures can be pinned on the back. Usually these are traditional stories with pirates, mermaids, chests of gold, palm trees, parrots, slender beauties, etc.
The choice of plot depends on the size. For example, a common occurrence is a small anchor, hands, or wrist.
Girls have tattoos, belly and side, (shins, feet, thighs). But if we are talking about a large and complex picture, then there are many options. It can be sleeves, or patterns that start on one part of the body and smoothly transition to another.
Large anchor on the thigh
Anchor with flowers on the leg
On the collarbone
On the finger
Shoulder
Forearm
On the neck
On the foot
On the wrist
Not all of the fair sex fill themselves with a small anchor. Many people like large sketches, up to 25 cm high.
Sketches
What kind of sketches of anchor tattoos do not come across in catalogs and on the Internet. Some are realistic, others are symbolic, and still others depict something mysterious and incomprehensible.
- A tattoo depicting a lighthouse and an anchor, or an anchor and a compass - the right path, confidence in the decisions made.
- If a sailor is a religious or superstitious person, then on his body you can see a tattoo depicting an anchor and a cross;
- For lovers of romance and tragedy - an anchor with flowers, an anchor and a rose, an anchor with a heart, an anchor and a skull;
- A popular drawing depicting an anchor with a snake. It can have several values. After all, the snake symbolizes both wisdom and deceit;
- Another popular option is an anchor with wings and an inscription written on a ribbon. Usually symbolizes freedom, as does an anchor with birds (most often, seagulls, or eagles);
- If you want something non-standard, a good sketch is an anchor that pierces the skin. When using realistic styles, it looks very impressive;
- More difficult tattoo octopus with an anchor. There may be a reference to the features of the underwater inhabitant. It is considered a symbol of immortality, rebirth. After all, he has three hearts and the ability to regenerate;
- Also, vintage tattoos are still popular - a mermaid with an anchor, an anchor and a wind rose, a shark and an anchor, an anchor and a steering wheel, an anchor with a compass. For their application, not the most realistic styles are usually used, close to those that sailors and fishermen had in the old days. These are old school and traditional sketches.
Anchor tattoo has always been associated with people who gave their heart to the sea. Indeed, many years ago, only sailors were tattooed in the shape of an anchor, thus they identified themselves. But in our time, sketches of such drawings have become popular among many people. The essence of the tattoo remained unchanged. The anchor still stands for reliability and embodies constancy in life. After all, the main function of the anchor is to keep the ship in place and maintain balance.
Anchor tattoo on the ankle
Origin story
The essence of the anchor tattoo should be sought by going back thousands of years into the past. She became popular back in the days of fearless pirates, who terrified peaceful sailors and travelers. But in our time, the tattoo is popular among the Marines and the American Coast Guard. The anchor is taken as a symbol of boundless passion for the sea.
This is interesting!
Previously, an anchor tattoo was applied only if the sailor crossed the Atlantic Ocean.
Sea wolves stuffed anchor tattoos with the goal of becoming the owner of a talisman in such a risky job. It was believed that such a symbol would help the sailor reach land unharmed.
anchor tattoo on finger
Tattoo in the cultures of the people of the world
In Renaissance art the anchor was quite often painted with a dolphin. These symbols embodied opposite qualities.
Important!
The dolphin symbolized speed and agility, while the anchor became a symbol of deceleration and constancy. Also, the anchor acts as a kind of tribute to the inhabitants of the seas and divine beings.
Anchor tattoo in the waves on the shoulder of a man
Since the upper part of the anchor is very close to the image of the cross, it can be argued that this symbol became one of the first signs Christian religion. Christians often depicted an anchor on tombstones. It has become a symbol of faith in salvation. The anchor acts as a basis, a support for the ship, so hope and faith protects the soul of a believing person from all suffering. This symbol was recorded in the letter of the Apostle Paul. The anchor is a symbol of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.
The Egyptians identified the anchor with the creation of the world, as well as the intersection of male and female principles.
There were many gods in the pantheon of deities who are associated with the anchor symbol. For example, Triton (half-man, half-fish), Neptune (the god of the sea among the Romans), Amphitrite (the patron goddess of sailors among the Greeks), Varun (the Hindu patron god of people who died in the sea).
Indian maps have the image of an anchor. Such a card in divination means an obstacle in business, on the way, an unexpected obstacle.
Old school tattoo style: anchor and roses
Anchor in the modern world
Anchor tattoo, the meaning of which over time has almost completely turned into “land”, has been popular in the West for more than two hundred years. It helps sailors to follow the right path, protects from storms and storms, strong sea currents. The anchor is often used in the heraldry of maritime countries.
Time passed and the meaning of the tattoo changed into an anchor design, the optimal solution for those who have a passion for the sea, the marine profession or cannot find peace in the sea of life. And the anchor tattoo, the sketches of which are quite diverse and rich in their style, pricked on the leg in our time symbolizes the right path of a person, a guarantee of returning home, despite the difficult roads in his fate.
Anchor in color on the guy's stomach
Tattoo image features
When choosing anchor tattoos, photos of works in the catalog of the tattoo parlor will help you choose the right pattern that emphasizes the individuality of the individual. The meaning of the wearable symbol varies depending on the features of the image, additional patterns and elements.
An anchor, supplemented by a chain, testifies to the presence in a person of life obligations from which he cannot be freed. Moreover, the length of the chain encircling the leg or wrist indicates the seriousness and complexity of these obligations.
The original tattoo depicting an anchor and a dead fish under the water is quite rare. Such a drawing symbolizes the secret that the owner of the tattoo keeps.
Tattoo experts from the nautical category assure that attention should be paid to the placement of the anchor in the design.
- The anchor, which stands straight, vertically according to the composition, focuses on the fact that the owner of such a tattoo is a reliable and responsible person who can be relied upon in difficult times.
- If the anchor is heeled, this indicates that the person has experienced difficult problems and life's trials. Despite the fact that the difficult period has passed, a person is not ready to forget about him and keeps memories in the depths of his soul.
Anchor and roses in dark colors on the shoulder
What does the tattoo symbolize?
- Reliability, stability. The image of an anchor is often identified with the fortitude of morale, strong will, which is necessary to easily cope with life's storms and currents.
- Power, perseverance, equanimity. The anchor is able to hold a huge ship even in a strong storm. Therefore, an anchor tattoo demonstrates the ability of the owner to cope with all the trials in order to achieve a dream and goal.
- Faith, loyalty. Experts say that this meaning is not so much connected with the subject itself, but with a certain spiritual and emotional beginning. The anchor keeps the ship in one place, despite storms and currents. Therefore, this symbol can symbolize loyalty to a loved one, devotion to him. Additionally, you can put the name of the person to whom your heart belongs.
- Interweaving of two beginnings. According to Egyptian symbols and beliefs, the anchor embodies the combination of male and female principles.
Small heart anchor tattoo
The marine theme is close to me, because I served in the Navy. Tattoo in the form of an anchor filled in the years of service. But over time, the tattoo has lost its visual appeal. Just recently I was going to update the drawing. The result surprised. The drawing has become bright and saturated, and the general view is even better than it was.
Oleg, Novorossiysk
I'm not the kind of person who thinks that a tattoo is a way to get attention. It's just beautiful. Therefore, the choice of the sketch was taken responsibly. No matter how it sounds to the readers, I decided to fill the anchor with the name of my lover. It's been a few years now and I don't regret anything.
Irina, Kazan
Video: tattoo anchors
Tattoo sketches
