Why we love big cat tattoos
Cats get lots of love here at Electric Street Tattoo to say the least.
Panthers, tigers, cheetahs, lions and leopards…
WE LOVE THEM ALL
We believe that inside every cat is a fierce hunter.
Even your more domesticated house cat is a warrior and hunter at its core.
What big cat tattoos mean
The big cats have a long standing relationship with tattoos. Since ancient times they have been seen as protectors from evil and even thought to be guides into the afterlife! Pretty cool right?
And so it only makes sense that the world of tattooing adopted them long ago and never looked back. In American Traditional flash, the crawling panther, often clawing down the arm, and the snarling tiger head are two of the classic designs. Bert Grimm’s tiger is still tattooed today. Read about Bert Grimm.
Sure enough dogs are mans best friend and we do get requests for dog tattoos as well, mostly portrait style tattoos from dog owners who want to immortalize their four legged companions. Nothing like feline tattoos though.
Panthers, tigers and lions
Tigers in particular are ferocious, graceful and breathtaking. Or take the lion for example. We aspire to mimic its stoic nature. It’s no wonder the popularity of our furry friends continues to surge year after year.
These god like creatures have mesmerized humans since way back when we lived in caves. A deep growl in the night was cause for panic.
In modern day the closest we get to a big cat would be at the city zoo, from behind plenty of thick glass or a cushy moat. Or, if you’re like us, at the tattoo shop where you can see your favorite tattoo artist breath life into one of these beautiful felines with needle and ink.
The Egyptians thought of felines as royalty. To the extreme that mummified cats have been found alongside their human counterparts.
Cats, both big and small, are wild and sensual. They are uninhibited and sexually powerful.
They exhibit leadership qualities which make them very attractive to tattoo collectors who are self defined as leaders who are not prone to ‘following the leader’.
If any of the above resonates with you then a big cat tattoo might be what you’re looking for.
Regardless of race, religion and cultural background, the feline transcends and captures the essence and feeling of raw power and energy.
Ultimately, they make for badass tattoos.
Other animal tattoos
Animals have been part of tattooing in every culture for thousands of years. In military and prison tattooing, they stand for power and authority. Not sure what to get? Try connecting with your inner animal.
Josh’s own collection is proof: an eagle on his chest, two wolves, a tiger on his ribs, several snakes, a black panther back piece, countless swallows and sparrows, and Pharaoh’s horses on his stomach. See eagle tattoos.
Get a big cat tattoo
Electric Street Tattoo is an artist-owned American Traditional shop at 320 E Oakland Park Blvd, serving Fort Lauderdale, Oakland Park and Broward County since 2015. Walk-ins welcome, or request a tattoo. (954) 666-1138. The Florida Panthers fans are covered too: Panthers Stanley Cup tattoos.
•tattoos in this post made with love by Miss Alex Joelle @alexjoelletattooer.
Alex can be found at Electric Street Tattoo on most days.
