![]() The dice tattoo was for risk-takers and those who loved to gamble. The conditions and the extreme temperatures there were often likened to the fiery depths of hell :). In the 19th century, the red devil was a common tattoo for engineers, firefighters, machinists, electricians and all who worked in the engine room, known as "The Pit". On the left hand, it indicated that the officer had sailed all the oceans and on the right, it showed that they had sailed the seven seas.Ī tattoo of a knot tied on a rope around the wrist was reserved for those who took care of the ship - the bosun and the deck officers. This tattoo was reserved for lower deck officers (lieutenants bosun - boatswain) and were worn on the hand between the thumb and forefinger. So, what other tattoos showed a sailor's dedication to their role or their profession on a ship? Crossed anchors For example, fishermen and members of whaling expeditions decorated themselves with a harpoon whilst crossed cannons indicated military service. These tattoos are generally quite self-explanatory. A cock on the right, never lose a fight.”Ĥ. But if there was a pig on the left knee and a rooster on the right foot, then the tattoo signified the old saying: “Pig on the knee, safety at sea. These tattoos were worn on the feet or ankles. But why these animals, which can't even swim or save us from drowning? The answer is that these animals were often kept on board in wooden crates which rarely sank in an accident, often being washed ashore with the animals still safe and sound. Occasionally, it could also symbolize God as the principal bearer of light.įor superstitious sailors, these animals were adorned as protection against shipwrecking and a guarantee of survival. Seafarers look to it and are guided by it in times of need. ![]() The lighthouse is a symbol of light, hope and protection. Anchor tattoos were also for sailors who had successfully completed a journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Representing honour, loyalty, and, of course, hope, an anchor tattoo was frequently accompanied by a heart, the words "Mom" or "Dad," or a sweetheart's name. Anchor tattooĪn anchor is the safest and most secure thing at sea, and it has long been a symbol of protection, stability, and security. As a result, certain tattoos were inked in the hopes of warding off bad luck and bringing good fortune. ![]() Sailing has always been a demanding and risky profession which led to a high degree of superstition. Tattoos for luck and for the superstitious Tattoos depicting Neptune also demonstrated this fact.ģ. Similarly, only a sailor who had circumnavigated Cape Horn could wear an earring and always on the ear that had faced the mainland.Įven the humble turtle illustrated sailing experience and a turtle shell was proudly displayed by sailors who had crossed the equator. This tattoo could only be earned by those who'd sailed around Cape Horn - the bravest and the best, who had fearlessly set out on the high seas completely at its mercy. Fully-rigged ship (three-masted sailing boat) Because of this, the tattoo was also used for good luck and protection.Īnd if you saw a sailor with a tattoo of a swallow pierced with a dagger, they'd most likely had it tattooed in memory of a fellow sailor who'd died. And why the swallow in particular? Strongly associated as a symbol of return, the swallow is able to cover great distances and still get back home. Only a sailor who had sailed 5,000 nautical miles was allowed to get a tattoo of a swallow. What is the meaning of a swallow tattooed on a sailor? Or even two? One thing is for sure, you'd definitely have a highly experienced sailor in front of you. Certain motifs were also used to show their courage and skill. Most commonly, tattoos served as a kind of logbook - a history confirming a sailor's experience at sea and a reminder of the places they'd visited and achievements accomplished. Originally, gunpowder and urine were used instead of ink. With sailors, we mean people who are sailing with sailboats and not motor yachts. They were brought to Europe by sailors as a souvenir from the Pacific islands, where the natives decorated their bodies with them. The roots of traditional tattoos go back to the 16th century (from the Samoan word tatau, meaning "to strike").
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