What are the meanings of tattoos in Russia?

What are the meanings of tattoos in Russia?

When people Google the implications of Russian tattoos, they seemingly want to discern the significance of Russian prison tattoos. Unlike American tattoos, nationalistic designs do not make up the bulk of it. Instead, theology takes the limelight and sparkles.

What do the Stars on a Russian prison tattoo mean?

Here are 12 Russian prison tattoos and their perceived meanings. Depending on the location on the body, the stars convey a prisoner’s status. When worn on the knees, the stars are a sign of a prisoner who commands respect. The implied meaning is “I will never get on my knees in front of anyone.”

What does the Grin mean in Russian tattoos?

Grin because it implies a mockery of the government system. Oftentimes, some anti-soviet texts are also added to these designs. The Madonna and Child is a thieves’ amulet, appearing as a protector from calamity and despair. It also implies that the bearer has been a criminal from an early age: ‘A child of prison’.

When did the tattoo culture start in Russia?

In the 1930s, Russian criminal castes began to emerge, such as the Masti (suits) and the Vor v Zakone (rus. Вор в Законе) or Blatnye (authoritative thieves), and with that a tattoo culture to define rank and reputation.

How to find the best tattoo designs for You?

Finding a tattoo design that you want inked on your skin forever is a process. Searching the photos on our site will help you get inspiration, or even better, a tattoo artist near you that can help bring your ideas to life. Tattoo.com helps you narrow down results to art created by tattoo artists near you.

How can I get a custom tattoo done?

Tell us the idea you have for your tattoo and one of our designers will work with you to make it reality. When you are satisfied with your design, we will send a high-resolution file ready to take your tattoo artist. Your tattoo will be unique and totally personalized. Art conservator and restorer.

When was the tattoo of a criminal banned in Russia?

The branding of criminals was practised in Russia long before tattooing was customary, and was banned in 1863. In the 19th century, a “pricked” cross on the left hand was often used to identify deserters from the army, and up until 1846, criminals sentenced to hard labour were branded “BOP” (thief), the letters on the forehead and cheeks.

Why did people get tattoos in Russian prisons?

These tattoos became intricate works of art that detailed not only an inmate’s crimes, but a good portion of their lives In the era of the Soviet party, Russian prisons were controlled by a gang known as the Thieves in Law. This gang enforced strict guidelines, including what and where prisoners could tattoo on their bodies.

What do the tattoos of the Russian mafia mean?

Russian mafia tattoo applications have their own glossaries. Giving an example, this tattoo might portray the myth of Prometheus confined to rock following the stealing of fire for humankind, but the sailboat on the sea gives it a deeper meaning.