Laurel wreath tattoos are steeped in ancient traditions and have deep meanings. Their symbolism has been taken from the ancient halls of classical Greece and Rome to adorn the skin of modern people. However, even after transcending time and cultures, their meanings have remained intact. They represent power, triumph, and glory. People choose these tattoos to depict their achievements and show their aspirations. You can also combine these tattoos with other motifs or personal elements such as a date to amplify their meanings and tell your story. This article will discuss the meaning of laurel wreath tattoos in detail and provide some design inspiration. Keep reading!
Meaning of a laurel wreath tattoo
Laurel wreaths are made from the intertwining of laurel leaves. Since ancient times, they have been universally accepted symbols of victory and triumph. They represent glory, wisdom, knowledge, and achievements in scientific pursuits. Some also associate the wreaths with peace and tranquility. Laurel trees are evergreen and never lose their leaves, regardless of the time of year. Therefore, they symbolize immortality, resilience, and protection. Their tattoos can embody any or all of these values and qualities. But more often, they are seen as a tribute to ancient knowledge and a symbol of success. The meaning of the tattoo can also vary based on individual experiences and beliefs.
Let’s take a look at some tattoo designs below and explain their meaning in context.
8 Awesome Laurel Wreath Tattoo Ideas
Laurel wreath tattoos reflect a skilled personality and act as a trophy for achievement. Below we have listed some unique tattoo designs that can inspire your next body art. Keep scrolling!
1. Traditional laurel wreath tattoo
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Laurel wreaths represent wisdom and creativity. The kings, queens, and scholars of ancient Greece and Rome are often depicted wearing the laurel crown. A tattoo of the same can thus symbolize royalty or achievement. Wearing one on the shoulder, like the model in the design above, shows pride and high self-esteem. The traditional black ink design gives it a timeless appeal.
2. Old-School Laurel Wreath Tattoo on Neck
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The tattoo of a laurel wreath decorated with flowers is a pure symbol of positivity, joy and happiness. In various cultures, such wreaths are given to loved ones at parting to wish them luck for a new beginning. This tattoo, etched on the neck, shows that the wearer sincerely wishes that everyone will continue to have happiness and success.
3. Greek Laurel Wreath Tattoo
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This design shows a laurel wreath encircling the sun god Apollo, who wore a crown of laurel leaves to show his love for Daphne. So a tattoo that combines the laurel wreath with the bust of the god can represent passion and success. It can also be an ode to the Greek god or a timeless love story. This tattoo can also represent the wearer carrying Apollo’s blessings with him as he strives for victory and achievement.
4. Roman laurel wreath tattoo
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The ancient Romans borrowed the symbolism of using laurel wreaths from the Greeks. The Roman goddess of victory Victoria is often depicted crowning gods and emperors with a laurel wreath, symbolizing victory. This leaf tattoo incorporates the Latin phrase “Veni Vidi Vici,” from the Roman emperor Julius Caesar, meaning “I came, I saw, I conquered.” The design, despite its delicate appearance, exudes strength, authority, and success.
5. Laurel Wreath Tattoo for Men
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This stylish laurel wreath tattoo with a crown is reminiscent of the wreaths worn by Roman emperors after their heroic victories in battle. This victory tattoo uses fine black lines and negative shading to create a timelessly regal look. The wreath and crown come together to represent power, honor, and purity. The intricate patterns in the design add to its aesthetic appeal.
6. American Traditional Laurel Wreath Tattoo
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This triumph tattoo style uses saturated black, brown, and red solid colors and minimal shading, giving it a prominent look. The tattoo features a laurel wreath with a stylized eagle holding an American shield with its wings outstretched. It represents victory and patriotism, saying that the wearer finds peace in protecting his countrymen.
7. Minimalist Laurel Wreath Tattoo
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If you are looking for a timeless classic laurel wreath tattoo design, then this simple wrist tattoo is for you! This minimalist, delicate laurel wreath tattoo symbolizes nobility and pays tribute to the brave warrior within you. This delicate tattoo represents peace and tranquility.
8. Skull with laurel wreath tattoo
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This tattoo depicts two paradoxical subjects: a laurel wreath and a skull. The laurel wreath retains its leaves throughout the year and therefore symbolizes immortality and eternal glory. The skull, on the other hand, depicts the transience of life. The tattoo indicates a person’s desire to leave a lasting legacy; to be remembered with respect for their achievements and contributions long after they are gone.
In ancient Greece and Rome, winners of athletic competitions and emperors returning from successful military conquests were crowned with laurel wreaths. They symbolized victory, triumph, power and authority. Today, many people get this emblem tattooed on their skin to show their inner strength or important achievements in their lives. They can be tattooed alone or combined with other elements such as a crown, skull or phrases to increase their symbolic value. You can also include emblems from classical Roman or Greek empires to show your appreciation for these cultures.
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Lucas Cummins is an Ohio-based tattoo artist who has been making his mark on the tattoo industry for the past 2 years. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for vibrant expression, Lucas specializes in neo-traditional, colorful, and abstract style tattoos.
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