The lion is one of the most popular animals for people to get tattooed on their bodies, and they have been for centuries. The lion symbolizes royalty and self-confidence. It once was, and still is in some cultures, viewed as a creature of aristocracy and law. In the past, the people of Asia got tattooed with lion images to show that they are full of energy and very powerful. Today, lion tattoos signify the same things, plus courage, glory, victory, strength, vitality, spirit, and masculinity. Lion tattoos are popular among women as they also symbolize beauty.

 

The Meanings of Lion Tattoos

Aside from lion’s basic verbal symbolism, there are some deeper meanings connected to them as well. Lion tattoos have been placed on men throughout history. Those in Asia, Africa, India, and the Middle East have emphasized the lion tattoo for many centuries. Lions have always been known as the king of the jungle, and this status portrays great power. This has always been the big appeal about the lion tattoo.

The lion is also representative of the Leo on the zodiac. So, anyone with this birth sign may choose a lion as their tattoo. Some people prefer the lion as a way to display their strength (both inner and outer), authority, and power.

Lions are considered courageous, which is a trait that many people wish to connect themselves with. Looking at things from the Egyptians’ point of view, they used lions to symbolize both strength and balance. Egyptian lion tattoos were often of two lions back to back. It showed balance.

As for women, except for the cute little Simba tattoos, some opt for a tattoo of the lioness. Lions live in a pack called a pride. In each pride, there is one dominant male. He just kind of chills out all day while the lionesses (usually there are several in one pride) bear the children, “raise” the children and go hunting. So, getting a female lion’s tattoo is symbolic of all women do as mothers, wives, and providers for their family. Many women choose to get lion cubs tattooed on their body to symbolize their children and the fact that they would fight fiercely to protect their “cubs.”

Placement of Lion Tattoos

Much like with tiger (or any other large cat) tattoos, many men opt to place them on the back in a large design. The arms and calves are also popular options for this particular design. For women, it is the shoulder blade or the small of the back for the lioness, and the ankle, wrist, foot, calf, shoulder, neck, or hip for smaller tats or designs of cartoon lions. When it comes to large designs, the middle back is the area that will allow for a more elaborate design that will look amazing!

You will also need to consider the design of the lion. There are several positions in which you can place your lion tattoo:

• Just the head
• Laying down in a lounging position
• Crouched in an attack position
• Standing up on two legs (popular for tribal design)

There are so many possibilities!

Lion Tattoos and Coloration

When getting a tattoo of the actual animal and not a cartoon character, the most popular colors are the ones we see in nature. However, some people choose to add splashes of color to match their personalities. Aside from the natural look, getting a lion tattoo in a tribal design is very popular. Tribal art brings out the best in such a design and can add even more meaning to the tattoo by simply using the image from nature.

Celebrities with Lion Tattoos

While many celebrities have tattoos (some have several), I was only able to find a few with the lion’s mark, and here they are:

• LeBron James has a lion head tattooed on his right arm. After all, his shooting arm is pretty fierce!
• Solo artist Robbie Williams has a lion tattoo and others such as music notes, swallows, hearts, and various numbers that meant something to him!
• Christina Ricci has a beautiful tattoo on her right shoulder blade of the lion’s head outline. The facial features are simplistic, but that adds to its beauty,
• Shemar Moore sports a lion on his right arm.
• Mena Suvari has a lion tattooed on the back of her neck and the words “Word Sound” placed under the image.

So, if you are considering getting a lion tattoo, remember that you will be in good company! Choose wisely and make sure that the lion is something that is in your heart before you put it on your skin!

Lion Tattoo Designs and Ideas

Lion Tattoos on Arm

Lion Tattoos Sleeve

Lion Tattoos on Chest

Lion Tattoos on Back

Lion Tattoos Forearm

Lion Tattoos for Men

Lion Tattoos for Women

Various Lion Tattoos Designs