Viking tattoos and Norse mythology imagery have had a resurgence in the mainstream after 2013’s Vikings, and 4 stunning movies in the Thor franchise.
Vikings are one of the most instantly recognizable ancient civilizations.
That is, the version of them we’ve come to know over the years.
Because of the long-lasting appeal of Viking legends, they are popular fodder for movies, comic books, and tattoo art.
People usually get Viking tattoos because of their Scandinavian background or love of Norse art.
Despite their popularity, the real history of Vikings is actually a bit of a question mark.
A lot of details about the Vikings, who didn’t keep written records, have been lost through the sands of time.
But that shouldn’t keep you from getting a beautiful, bold piece of Viking tattoo art.
There are many tattoo artists with an appreciation for Viking culture and folklore.
You’ll be able to get the essence of the culture, but you may have to unlearn some things first.
Did Vikings Have Tattoos?
Nobody knows for sure whether the Vikings had tattoos or not.
It’s easy to assume they did.
They were concerned with appearance, esoteric symbolism, and body modification.
Some remains have shown, for example, that Vikings filed their teeth with horizontal lines.
There is no written record of the reason for Viking tooth modification, but historians assume it was to look discouraging.
The general consensus is that if Vikings had knowledge of tattoos, they would have done them.
Seeing as they were such great travelers, they likely came across the art form on one island or another.
Viking Tattoo Themes
For today’s Viking enthusiast, there are many tattoo designs to choose from.
Here are a few design elements you can present to a tattoo artist and celebrate your Nordic pride.
Viking Ship Tattoos
Being such excellent explorers, Vikings were known for their ships.
Viking ships are long, somewhat ornate, and have points on each end.
They have a distinct look, making them popular subjects for tattoos.
The points on each end were not just for show- they were valuable when cutting through ice.
The long, pointed boats could also move quickly either backward or forward.
This made it easier to navigate the icy waters.
A Viking ship tattoo may represent your desire to forge ahead through wild seas.
Sometimes high ranking officials were buried in their boats.
This would ensure smooth sailing into the afterlife.
In this context, a Viking ship may make a nice memorial tattoo.
Speaking of Viking ceremonies, the arrows and floating vigil pyre is likely a myth.
The mechanics of it just wouldn’t work properly.
At times the Vikings would burn their lost ones on land.
Smoke is often used to cleanse bad energy in some circles.
Rune Tattoos
The runes are an ancient divination tool. They are still sold in various shops today.
A rune is a symbol carved or painted onto a stone, piece of wood, or rock.
A rune reader will generally cast runes out onto a surface, then read the runes that are facing up.
Each symbol has its own significance and will be read both on its own and in combination with the other runes.
It is said that Odin, who was on a never-ending quest for knowledge, discovered the runes.
After swaying from Yggdrasil, the tree at the center of the universe, Odin was gifted the knowledge of the runes.
Runes are divine symbols but also work as a writing system.
There are 2 Runic alphabets: The Elder Futhark with 24 symbols, and the Younger Futhark with 16.
The Younger Futhark is divided into the “long branch” or Danish style, and the “short twig” or Swedish and Norwegian style.
Runes tattoos can be a cool shout-out to other enthusiasts.
Be sure your artist has a grasp on each letter and its meaning!
Some runes can look very similar.
Viking Deities Tattoos
Norse folklore is rich with interesting legends, and deities.
If there is a specific trait you’re looking to cultivate in your life, there’s likely a corresponding Norse deity for it.
Take Odin, for example.
He symbolizes wisdom, both of the mundane and esoteric variety.
You may prefer his counterpart Frigg, the goddess of motherhood, foresight, and wisdom.
Another popular Viking tattoo is Freya, the goddess of fecundity and gold.
You can see how an artist would have fun imagining her.
Odin Tattoos
Even without a background in Norse culture, you may have heard of Odin.
He’s the god of gods, the “all-father” of Norse legend.
As he is many people’s entry point into Viking deities, Odin tattoos are quite popular.
Generally speaking, Odin tattoos are a sign of wisdom and knowledge.
When considering Odin’s significance as a deity, it’s important to look to his eye.
Odin gave up his eye to have access to Mimir’s well which would allow him to acquire even more wisdom than he already had.
