40 INTRICATE MANDALA TATTOO DESIGNS

Since mandala appears in various cultures, there is no shortage of inspiration. In quilt design, wall decor, mandala is one of the most popular textures out there. Similarly, the pattern finds its influence in tattoo art. Despite religious ties, mandala tattoo shows versatility in terms of design and expression, adapting to both men and women. Recently, there are growing number of its designs emerging in various styles, and viral in the social media.

What is mandala?

Mandala refers to the type of flower-like patterns with symmetrical petals and symbols radiating outwards. Most of them come in circular shape in flat or multi-layer design. Although it appears in many forms of flower, mandala is not a flower that grows naturally. The word mandala is from Sanskrit term that means circle. It has deep association with Hinduism and Buddhism.

Mandala is a spiritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the nature of the pure land, enlightened mind. As an aid to meditation, it helps practitioners concentrate their attentions. In general, the circular image makes people perceive the balance, harmony and cosmic infinity. Despite the fact that modern people may neglect its religious implications, the geometric shape remains ideal metaphor for universe, continuous life cycle, death and rebirth.

Inspirational mandala tattoo designs

When it comes to tattoo design, there is no limit how the imagery is drawn. However what the body art looks like is dependent on the style, size and placement of tattoo. If it is the sole metaphor, the mandala could appear in singular one. There are many tattoo styles to apply for presentation, such as,

Gray wash – black and white or grayscale
Dotwork – unique tattoo style featuring black dots
Tribal – incorporates styles or elements of Polynesian tattoos
Split – ink half of mandala in hands or arms symmetrically

Apart from singular design, mandala gets along with many other metaphors such as rose, anchor, skull, etc.

In terms of placement, the intricate mandala tattoos are often inked on the shoulder, back or arms. It creates mysterious imaginations for the wearers. Check out the roundup of the best pieces we have collected if you’d like to find inspiration.

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Mandala inspired geometric tattoo for men, a signage of eternal love to his loved one

An example of mandala symbol integrated in a maritime tattoo design. The skull, anchor and mandala symbols represents balance and safe voyage in the life.