Last updated on September 14th, 2024 at 02:40 pm
Anubis, the ancient Egyptian deity associated with the afterlife, mummification, and protection of graves, offers a rich source of symbolism for tattoos. Anubis, often depicted with a jackal’s head, represents guidance, protection, and the transition to the afterlife.
In this article, we explore 30 unique Anubis tattoo ideas for men, each highlighting different aspects of this powerful figure with a blend of historical and contemporary designs.
1. Traditional Anubis Portrait
A traditional Anubis tattoo features a detailed depiction of the deity’s head with a jackal’s face, often adorned with ancient Egyptian symbols and hieroglyphs.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents protection, guidance, and the ancient power associated with Anubis, with the traditional style emphasizing historical authenticity.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or chest, where the detailed portrait can be showcased prominently.
2. Anubis with Scales
Incorporating scales into the Anubis tattoo design adds an element of judgment. This tattoo often features Anubis holding or interacting with a set of scales.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes the judgment of souls, balance, and the transition to the afterlife, with the scales adding a significant and symbolic touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the scales and Anubis can be depicted in a detailed and balanced manner.
3. Anubis and the Eye of Horus
Combining Anubis with the Eye of Horus adds a protective and mystical dimension. This tattoo often features Anubis alongside or interacting with the Eye of Horus symbol.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents protection, wisdom, and the fusion of divine elements, with the Eye of Horus adding a mystical and powerful touch.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or side of the torso, where the Eye of Horus and Anubis can be displayed together.
4. Anubis with Ankh
An Anubis tattoo featuring the ankh adds a symbol of life and immortality. This design often includes Anubis holding or surrounded by an ankh.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes immortality, eternal life, and the divine protection of Anubis, with the ankh adding a sacred and life-affirming element.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or chest, where the ankh and Anubis can be depicted in a prominent and meaningful manner.
5. Anubis in Ancient Egyptian Style
An Anubis tattoo in ancient Egyptian style features traditional artistic elements, such as bold lines, intricate patterns, and hieroglyphics.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents connection to ancient Egyptian culture, with the traditional style emphasizing historical and cultural authenticity.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or back, where the Egyptian style and Anubis can be displayed extensively.
6. Anubis and Scarab Beetle
Incorporating a scarab beetle into the Anubis tattoo adds a symbol of transformation and protection. This design often features Anubis with or surrounded by scarab beetles.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes protection, transformation, and the sacred role of Anubis, with the scarab beetle adding a powerful and symbolic element.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or side of the torso, where the scarab beetle and Anubis can be depicted together.
7. Anubis with Hieroglyphs
An Anubis tattoo featuring hieroglyphs adds an authentic Egyptian touch. This design often includes Anubis surrounded by or interacting with Egyptian script.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the ancient wisdom and sacred language of Egypt, with the hieroglyphs enhancing the historical and mystical aspects of Anubis.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or back, where the hieroglyphs and Anubis can be depicted in a detailed and integrated manner.
8. Anubis and Pyramid
Combining Anubis with a pyramid adds a monumental and historical element. This tattoo often features Anubis alongside or in front of a pyramid.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes ancient Egyptian grandeur, protection, and the connection between Anubis and the afterlife, with the pyramid adding a significant and historical touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or chest, where the pyramid and Anubis can be displayed prominently.
9. Anubis with Mummy
An Anubis tattoo featuring a mummy adds a direct connection to the afterlife. This design often includes Anubis with or interacting with a mummified figure.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the role of Anubis in mummification and the protection of the dead, with the mummy adding a direct link to the afterlife.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or side of the torso, where the mummy and Anubis can be depicted in a detailed and integrated manner.
10. Abstract Anubis
An abstract Anubis tattoo uses geometric shapes and modern artistic elements to represent the deity. This design often features stylized forms and bold colors.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents creativity, modernity, and the fusion of traditional and abstract art, with the abstract style adding a contemporary and unique touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the abstract design can be showcased expansively.
11. Anubis with Celestial Elements
Incorporating celestial elements like stars and moons into an Anubis tattoo adds a cosmic dimension. This design often features Anubis surrounded by celestial bodies.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes the connection between the divine and the cosmos, with celestial elements adding a mystical and cosmic touch to Anubis.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or chest, where the celestial elements and Anubis can be depicted together.
12. Anubis with Lotus Flower
A lotus flower added to an Anubis tattoo brings a spiritual and serene element. This design often features Anubis with or surrounded by lotus flowers.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents enlightenment, spiritual growth, and the fusion of divine protection with purity, with the lotus flower adding a serene and sacred touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or thigh, where the lotus and Anubis can be depicted in a detailed and flowing manner.
13. Anubis with Egyptian Gods
Combining Anubis with other Egyptian gods creates a complex and rich design. This tattoo often features Anubis alongside deities like Ra or Osiris.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the pantheon of Egyptian gods, divine protection, and the interconnectedness of deities, with the inclusion of other gods adding depth and significance.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or back, where multiple gods and Anubis can be depicted in a detailed and integrated manner.
14. Anubis with Snakes
Incorporating snakes into an Anubis tattoo adds a symbol of rebirth and transformation. This design often features Anubis with or surrounded by serpents.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes transformation, protection, and the sacred role of Anubis, with the snakes adding a dynamic and symbolic touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or side of the torso, where the snakes and Anubis can be depicted together.
15. Anubis with Sacred Geometry
A tattoo featuring Anubis with sacred geometry integrates spiritual and mathematical elements. This design often includes geometric patterns surrounding or intertwined with Anubis.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the fusion of divine protection with the principles of sacred geometry, emphasizing harmony, balance, and spiritual connection.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or thigh, where the geometric patterns and Anubis can be depicted in a detailed and symmetrical manner.
16. Anubis with Ancient Scrolls
Incorporating ancient scrolls into an Anubis tattoo adds a historical and scholarly dimension. This design often features Anubis with or interacting with scrolls or scripts.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents wisdom, knowledge, and the role of Anubis in the ancient Egyptian context, with the scrolls adding an educational and historical touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or chest, where the scrolls and Anubis can be displayed prominently.
17. Anubis with Feather of Ma’at
The Feather of Ma’at added to an Anubis tattoo symbolizes truth and justice. This design often features Anubis with the feather, representing the balance of souls.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes balance, truth, and the role of Anubis in weighing the souls against the feather, with the feather adding a significant and symbolic element.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or side of the torso, where the feather and Anubis can be depicted together.
18. Anubis in Graffiti Style
A graffiti-style Anubis tattoo adds a modern and urban twist. This design often features vibrant colors and street art aesthetics.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the fusion of ancient symbolism with contemporary art, with the graffiti style adding a dynamic and rebellious touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the graffiti style and Anubis can be displayed expansively.
19. Anubis with Crescent Moon
Incorporating a crescent moon into an Anubis tattoo adds a celestial and mystical element. This design often features Anubis with or near a crescent moon.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes the connection between the divine and the lunar realm, with the crescent moon adding a mystical and celestial touch to Anubis.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or chest, where the crescent moon and Anubis can be depicted together.
20. Anubis with Hieroglyphic Script
Adding hieroglyphic script to an Anubis tattoo enhances the historical and mystical aspect. This design often includes Anubis with hieroglyphs as part of the overall design.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the sacred language of ancient Egypt, with the hieroglyphs adding authenticity and depth to the symbolism of Anubis.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the hieroglyphs and Anubis can be displayed in a detailed and integrated manner.
21. Anubis with Egyptian Cross
An Egyptian cross, or Ankh, added to an Anubis tattoo symbolizes life and immortality. This design often features Anubis with the ankh symbol.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes immortality, divine protection, and the connection between life and the afterlife, with the ankh adding a sacred and eternal element.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or chest, where the ankh and Anubis can be depicted prominently.
22. Anubis with Cosmic Elements
Incorporating cosmic elements like galaxies and stars into an Anubis tattoo adds a celestial dimension. This design often features Anubis amidst a cosmic backdrop.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the divine connection between Anubis and the cosmos, with cosmic elements adding a mystical and expansive touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the cosmic elements and Anubis can be depicted together.
23. Anubis with Egyptian Gods and Goddesses
Combining Anubis with other Egyptian gods and goddesses creates a rich and intricate design. This tattoo often features Anubis alongside deities like Isis or Osiris.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the pantheon of Egyptian deities, divine protection, and the interconnectedness of the gods, with multiple figures adding depth and significance.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or back, where multiple deities and Anubis can be depicted in a detailed and integrated manner.
24. Anubis with Sun and Moon
Combining the sun and moon with Anubis adds a balance of celestial forces. This design often features Anubis surrounded by or interacting with sun and moon symbols.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes balance, duality, and the cosmic influence of Anubis, with the sun and moon adding a dynamic and celestial touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or chest, where the sun, moon, and Anubis can be depicted together.
25. Anubis with Ancient Egyptian Artifacts
Incorporating artifacts like scarabs, scepters, or amulets into an Anubis tattoo adds historical and cultural depth. This design often features Anubis with ancient Egyptian relics.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the sacred artifacts and cultural heritage of ancient Egypt, with the artifacts adding historical and symbolic significance to Anubis.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or back, where the artifacts and Anubis can be depicted prominently.
26. Anubis in Neo-Traditional Style
A neo-traditional Anubis tattoo features bold lines, vibrant colors, and a modern twist on classic designs. This design often includes updated interpretations of Anubis.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents a contemporary take on ancient symbolism, with the neo-traditional style adding a vibrant and modern touch to Anubis.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the neo-traditional style and Anubis can be displayed expansively.
27. Anubis with Egyptian Motifs
Incorporating Egyptian motifs like lotus flowers or papyrus into an Anubis tattoo adds a cultural and symbolic element. This design often features Anubis surrounded by Egyptian patterns.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes the cultural and symbolic richness of ancient Egypt, with the motifs enhancing the historical and mystical aspects of Anubis.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or side of the torso, where the Egyptian motifs and Anubis can be depicted together.
28. Anubis with Celestial Bodies
Incorporating celestial bodies like planets and stars into an Anubis tattoo adds a cosmic and expansive element. This design often features Anubis amidst a celestial backdrop.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the divine and cosmic connection of Anubis, with celestial bodies adding a mystical and expansive touch.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the celestial bodies and Anubis can be depicted together.
29. Anubis with Protective Symbols
Adding protective symbols like the Eye of Horus or Egyptian amulets to an Anubis tattoo enhances the theme of protection. This design often features Anubis with these symbols.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Symbolizes divine protection, guidance, and the sacred role of Anubis, with protective symbols adding an additional layer of meaning.
Placement: Ideal for the upper arm or chest, where the protective symbols and Anubis can be displayed prominently.
30. Anubis with Modern Art Elements
Incorporating modern art elements like abstract shapes or vibrant colors into an Anubis tattoo adds a contemporary twist. This design often features Anubis with modern artistic interpretations.
Meaning and Placement
Meaning: Represents the fusion of ancient symbolism with modern art, with contemporary elements adding a unique and artistic touch to Anubis.
Placement: Best suited for the upper arm or back, where the modern art elements and Anubis can be depicted together.
How to Choose the Best Anubis Tattoo
Choosing the perfect Anubis tattoo involves several considerations to ensure it aligns with your personal style and the significance of the design:
- Personal Significance: Reflect on the symbolism and personal meaning of Anubis in relation to your life and beliefs. Choose a design that resonates with you on a deeper level.
- Design Style: Decide on a design style that suits your aesthetic preferences. Whether you prefer traditional, abstract, or modern styles, ensure the tattoo reflects your individuality.
- Size and Detail: Consider the size and level of detail for your tattoo. Larger designs can accommodate intricate details, while smaller tattoos offer a more subtle representation.
- Pain Tolerance: Be aware of the potential discomfort associated with tattooing. Discuss pain management options with your tattoo artist to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Consult a Professional: Work with an experienced tattoo artist who can bring your vision to life. Share your ideas and preferences to ensure the final design meets your expectations.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select an Anubis tattoo that not only enhances your personal style but also captures the essence of protection, guidance, and ancient wisdom that Anubis symbolizes.
I’m Ethan Richards, the creative mind behind Tattoo Heist. With a deep passion for ink and a wealth of experience in the tattoo industry, I bring you top-notch tattoo artistry, expert tips, and the stories behind each design.
