Snake Tattoo Ideas for Men and Women
People are drawn to snakes. Maybe it is the way they move, or the way they coil before they strike. Snakes stand for power, protection, change and rebirth, which is why snake tattoos have been popular across cultures for centuries.
Before you book, here are some of the strongest snake tattoo ideas to help you find the right design and placement.
What does a snake tattoo mean?
In Japanese tattooing, the snake (hebi) is a protector believed to bring good fortune and ward off illness and bad luck. Because snakes shed their skin, they also represent transformation and renewal. In other traditions the snake is a symbol of wisdom, healing and eternity.
Snake tattoo ideas
Japanese snake
A traditional Japanese snake, often paired with peonies, cherry blossoms, waves or a geisha, is bold, colourful and made to flow with the body. It suits sleeves, legs and back pieces.
Snake and rose in black and grey
A realistic snake wrapped around a rose is a classic. Deep shading between the flower and the serpent keeps the design clean and striking, and it looks great on the shoulder or forearm.
Ouroboros
The ouroboros is a snake swallowing its own tail. It represents eternity and the cycle of life, and its circular shape works well on the knee, elbow or upper arm.
Large back piece
A snake coiling across the back gives an artist room for detail and movement. It is a powerful piece with deep meaning.
Cobra
The cobra has long been a symbol of royalty and protection. Its open hood makes a dramatic centrepiece in traditional, neo-traditional or blackwork styles.
Fine line snake
For something softer, a fine line snake, sometimes paired with a sun, moon or flowers, sits beautifully on the forearm, ankle or collarbone.
Snake and flowers
Snakes and flowers balance danger and beauty. Some designs even build the scales from petals for a creative, one-of-a-kind look.
Choosing placement
Snakes are long, flowing designs, so they suit areas where they can wrap and move: arms, legs, ribs and back. Your artist will shape the design to follow the curves of your body.
Book your snake tattoo in Perth
Whether you want a traditional Japanese snake, black and grey realism or fine line work, our artists at Primitive Tattoo on Barrack Street, Perth, can bring it to life. Book a free consultation today.