African tattoos are unique because of their connection with the tradition and culture of the people.
Some believe African-inspired inkings protect them against spiritual attacks, while others choose them for decorations or style.
There are multiple African tattoo ideas to choose from in 2023.
Amazing African tattoo ideas. Photo: @jaybeetattoo, @spiritualjourneytattoo, @danielvalhalus (modified by author)Source: UGC
Different tribes in the African culture have unique tribal emblems they consider valuable.
Some of them are deities, warriors, and shields.
Check out amazing African tattoo ideas below.
Amazing elephant inkings. Photo: @angelique_draws, @jaynesermannitattoo (modified by author)Source: UGC
Amazing African tattoo ideas
Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience for many people.
Before settling for a design, you should know its meaning.
Below is a collection of African tattoo styles you should consider.
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Cute elephants
Elephants make an unforgettable tattoo design when well-planned and properly inked into your body.
The meaning of an African elephant tattoo is strength, divinity, loyalty, and good luck.
Zebra-inspired
Did you know human beings tried to domesticate zebras but were unable to?
Elephant-inspired inkings. Photo: @truealchemytattooing, @ivytattoostudio (modified by author)Source: UGC
These animals kept fleeing back into the wild.
As a result, they symbolise freedom.
Zebra inkings are ideal for people who wish to live on their own terms.
Amazing scar inkings. Photo: @babajideolatunji, @hopestiny_glams (modified by author)Source: UGC
They are larger than those found in Asia and are identified by their gigantic ears.
Inkings of elephants inside the map of Africa are eye-catching.
If you are looking for a perfect African chest tattoo, try this design.
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African sketch inking
The sketch tattoo style is informal.
It is a light drawing which is sometimes diluted with colour.
These markings are also a sign of beauty.
Fascinating warrior inkings. Photo: @hardcore_ruiz, @mediastintass_tattoo (modified by author)Source: UGC
African woman tattoo
Africans are associated with rich culture.
The African woman is beautiful and strong.
She takes pride in her body.
Amazing female warrior designs. Photo: @elchambo_tattoo, @rachel.tattoos (modified by author)Source: UGC
If this is how you feel about yourself, why not get an inking depicting this?
They represent the customs and traditions of a particular culture, conveying national pride.
Afrocentric inking
A wooden comb symbolises feminine beauty, love, and care.
Horus god inkings. Photo: @ink.haku, @robertpavlik.tattoo (modified by author)Source: UGC
Lovers of natural hair can rock this inking unapologetically.
Female warrior inkings
It is widely believed that warriors are men.
However, this is not true.
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There are many female warriors who have made significant contributions to their communities.
Horus god
Horus is afalcon-headed godand is one of the most commonly used symbols of Egypt.
He was the son of Osiris and Isis and the divine child of the holy family triad.
Fabulous inkings. Photo: @spiritualjourneytattoo, @hotrod028 (modified by author)Source: UGC
He was also the helper of Ra and he symbolised the powers of the Pharaoh in Egyptian history.
If you are looking for an African tattoo sleeve, try the Horus-inspired design.
The traditional African woman is hardworking and dedicated to her family and community.
Anansi-inspired inkings. Photo: @painted_heart_arts, @gombas007 (modified by author)Source: UGC
Woman and cheetah
A cheetah is a symbol of power, strength, grace, and speed.
These animals often depict divine guidance.
Anansi-inspired
Anansi is a spider-like god from West African mythology.
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He is the god of knowledge and is respected for his ability to defeat powerful opponents through his creativity.
Sometimes,Anansi isdrawn as a spider with a human face or a human with spider-like features.
How did Steve Irwin die?
Anubis-inspired designs. Photo: @danielvalhalus, @darkart.tattoostudio (modified by author)Source: UGC
A lioness nurtures her cubs and trains them to be strong and fearless.
If you value family and community,this designis ideal for you.
Zulu Spirit of the Warrior
Zulu is the largest ethnic community in South Africa.
Zulu Spirit of the Warrior inkings. Photo: @john_martin_tattoo, @mike.fd.tattoos (modified by author)Source: UGC
People from theZulu communitywere known for their military exploits.
Other communities feared the Zulu Kingdom.
Zulu warriors, therefore, symbolise bravery, courage, and strength.
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you might show your love for the continent by inking its map.
Shield-inspired
A shield is a sign of protection and courage.
Tribal mask
In many African communities, masks symbolise unseen, supernatural forces beneficial to communities.
Shield-inspired designs. Photo: @maxpaintattoo, @nuworldcomics (modified by author)Source: UGC
If you believe in these forces or want special protection, consider getting a tribal mask.
Coloured African tattoos
Many people assume that people of colour cannot have coloured inkings.
This notion is wrong.
Coloured inking designs. Photo: @jaybeetattoo, @tattoosbyevi (modified by author)Source: UGC
You should consult your tattoo expert to know the colours that work best with your skin tone.
Honour your motherland with a coloured inking in 2023.
The meanings of various African tattoos vary from community to community.
Read also
You should research the meaning of the one you are interested in before getting inked.
What do African tattoos mean?
African tattoos mean a lot of things.
Read also
How do I get a unique tattoo idea?
Next, check for inspiration online and design something unique.
What is the most requested tattoo?
Themost requested tattoosinclude dolphins, dragons, butterflies, Celtic symbols, wings, stars, and hearts.
There are many African tattoo ideas to choose from in 2023.
An inking is a permanent decision, so think critically before choosing a design.
READ ALSO:50+ cool anime tattoos for yourself and for couples (matching tat)
Who is MissClick?
Gettinganimeinkings is the perfect way of appreciating your best Japanese animation.
There are many anime characters to choose from, depending on your aesthetic and what they speak to you.
If you are going for anime inkings, get creative by trying out inspiration from your favourite anime characters.
She holds a Diploma in Mass Communication and a Bachelors degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenyatta University.
Cyprine joined Briefly.co.za in mid-2021, covering multiple topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle.
In 2023, she finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques.
She received the Writer of the Year awards in 2023 and 2024.
In 2024, she completed the Google News Initiative course.
Email: cyprineapindi@gmail.com
