Dove Tattoo – When it comes to tattoos, the dove has been one of the most popular and preferred birds for its poise, prettiness, dignity, and rich symbolism. Its intricacy in nature makes it a versatile design – tattooed alone or alongside other unique and meaningful symbols. You can have a dove tattoo in any size, pattern, colour, and shape.
Typically, they are portrayed alongside hearts, biblical symbols, olive tree branches, or praying hands. And yes, the flying one with the backdrop of clouds! Regardless of what design you like, you must pick the one that resonates with your positive vibes and has the strongest meaning to facilitate your life. About placement, you can put a dove on your chest to show your inner fortitude – how strong and daring you are.
Let your story be etched in the flight of a dove!
What Does A Dove Tattoo Suggest?
Dove is more than just a beautiful bird to ink on the skin; it has diverse meanings across the history of different cultures, traditions, religions, and civilizations. If you get a dove tattoo, you will be representing any of these meanings (the most common ones):
Dove Holding The Olive Branch
Christians believe that a dove holding the olive branch in its talons or beak is a depiction of amity, goodwill, and bliss. It demonstrates one’s desire for peacefulness in one’s life or all around the world. Further, people tend to relate flocks of doves with Jesus and the Holy Spirit. A single-flying dove is often associated with purity and deep spiritual connection. Lastly, it exemplifies victory. Whether it be a career or love, individuals get this tattoo to share their successes.
In Greek and Roman Folklore
- Firstly, Aphrodite – the Greek goddess – has a close association with doves. She was said to be carried in a chariot driven by doves, and all daughters are mentioned as a flock of doves.
- Secondly, the Xochiquetzal – the goddess of love – was an illustration of the dove.
Family, Affection & Faithfulness
Dove is “fidelity and love.” Considering how dove couples stay together for their entire lives, it characterises commitment, piety, and unconditional love. Consequently, pronouncing a life-long relationship! On the flip side, male and female dove mates take care of their family together, representing a vow of offering protection, respect, sincerity, and fondness to their dear ones.
Freedom
Birds are an expression of freedom, and so are doves. By inking doves carrying dreams on your bicep or back (along with feathers), you spell out the eagerness to live spiritually/mentally free. It also presents self-determination.
In Japan
Japanese society regards it as a sign of euphony. What’s more? Being a part of wedding ceremonies, it serves as an indicator of a lifetime commitment (love or career).
New Start
The most common connotation of doves is taken from an inspiring story of Noah and the Arc, highlighting the true essence of hope and fresh beginnings. Hence, dove tattoos habitually imply starting over.
14 Best Dove Tattoo Ideas
Dove tattoos carry a universal appeal, and their variations let you reveal your identity, share your beliefs, and reminisce your experiences. It can be an evocative pick for many.
Soaring Doves Tattoo
Do you aim to start a new journey, have your spirit rebuilt, or have you been doing better than your past? Have one flock of lying doves to sense freedom. For a three-dimensional appearance, keep the wings’ angles different or add a pop of white (any colour) to the outlines. Consider it a timeless reminder of optimism!
Dove and Cross Tattoo
An ideal combo: stairs to paradise, a biblical cross, and a dove with spanning wings. It underscores the importance of spirituality in your life and retells you of your promise of salvation. Feel free to pick Celtic, Latin, or any other style of cross for added uniqueness.
Gold Ink Dove Tattoo
Indeed, it captures the gentle exquisiteness of doves while giving the tattoo an expensive, luxurious, and dreamlike feel. You can highlight the olive branch, feathers, or a cloud with golden. In practice, the gold may mean your achievements.
Dove With a Red Heart Tattoo
A Dove silhouette in black accompanied by a heart in red is a sweet and powerful art for anyone looking for a small, minimalistic tattoo. It is like celebrating love in its purest form!
Two Doves Tattoo
One for the couples here, displaying a deep bond that lasts! Also, if you value relationships and believe in strong ties, this dove tattoo is your prime pick. It will act as a messenger of goodwill in your romantic relationship. You can add your partner’s name or infinity symbols, too.
Dove and Olive Tree Branch Tattoo
Ideal for females, this can also be made by men on their hands, upper back, or chest. Consider it a fortunate piece of art that will bring calmness and love into your life, help you find inner peace, and show uplifting messages. A subtle hint of muted colours can turn it into a stunning visual with something to feel content.
Dove & Rose Tattoo
Nothing could be better than romanticising the dove with the roses. With endless possibilities of design, this can be beautifully personalised. It is in association with passion, friendliness, harmony, and beauty.
Dove With a Lock And Key Tattoo
Choosing one or two doves carrying a lock and key in their/beak or claws is quite an artistic concept. It also happens to carry a worthy message of virtue and deep affection.
White Dove Tattoo
Epitomising innocence, spirituality, purity, and hope – a dove in complete white or simply with a white outline is a strong statement without being fancy. It possesses an elegant simplicity yet profound meaning. One may give it a personal touch with olive branches, special dates, or praying hands. This goes best with the dark and vibrant colour scheme
Dove With Nautical Stars Tattoo
With clever artistry, the incorporation of nautical stars with a flying dove is possible, which will give you a captivating aesthetic. It symbolises good luck that will come with new beginnings. The use of a four-pointed nautical star is related to spiritual guidance.
Geometric Doves Tattoo
What an amazing dove tattoo with a twist of geometry and a hand. Adding angular lines, triangles or circles, filler dots, or abstract shapes can improve a simple picture of the bird.
Watercolor Turtle Dove Tattoo
A colourful dove? Hell yes! Being a portrayal of intimacy and commitment, it is the best idea for matching tattoos. Using fine lines, an eye-grabbing palette, and intricate details to enhance the bird’s elegance may evoke the right sentiments.
In the Clouds Tattoo
Carrying an infinite allure, the dove’s flight with white- or multicoloured clouds personifies freedom, aspirations, solace, and purity. Where white is for innocence, multiple shades will transcend normality.
Dove with A Dandelion Tattoo
Get a creative tattoo where a dandelion will fade away and delicately turn into a dove. It will share the resilient spirit in the face of hardship and your motivation to accept a new start. This dove tattoo summarises the thoughtful idea of growth and freedom.
Takeaway
You can get one on your wrist, neck, back of the ear, side of the hand, chest, or anywhere to flaunt. From Pink (the pop star) to Rihanna to Beckham, even celebrities have dove tattoos. Need some ideas for hand tattoos for men? We have a list for this, too!
