Largely, Mexican tattoos have become a trending body art of today’s generation. The exquisiteness of their details bound to spark any observer’s interest. Ideally, the rebirth of patterns and indigenous themes Mexican or Chicano tattoos typify directly link to that of ancient civilizations. The Aztecs, Mayans and Incas, were the first ethic groups to personify these versions of body art. Today’s modernized prototypes inherit a generously rich foundation of their expressive styling and technique, despite their distinctiveness. Reasonably, the contemporary arts are approvingly distinguishable with their concentrated, dark hues and distinctive geometric pattern schemes. In truth, there’s a message expressed with respective tattoos.
Tracing the roots: The Aztecs
Primarily conveying Aztec arts, Mexican tattoos symbolize many codes of honor. The Aztecs settled around different areas of Mexico throughout the thirteenth to sixteenth centuries. Tribal tattoos had a sense of purpose to their lives, as was their many gods and religion. During rituals, they used tattooing as a way of honoring their gods. In addition, tribal tattoos were purposeful in differentiating the Aztec tribes. Tattoos also distinguished ranks of heroism and status. In modern-day, some of these revered Aztec symbols have crossed over into Mexico tattooing through re-branding.
Their sun-god Huitzilopochtili still remains favorably respected. This explains the sun symbol’s reputation with the Mexican versions. Quetzalcoatl is another imitation of the traditional Aztec symbol, typifying their supreme god. This idol ruled over the weather, fertility and creativity, according to Aztec history. Some other trending designs embraced includes the sun/moon, cross, eagle, Aztec calendar and their god of war, Tezcatlipoca. Many Mexicans embrace a sense of honor and connection to their ancestors.
Mexican tattoo designs and their meaning
For Mexicans, wearing tattoos to the skin is not generally about fashion as others see it. Their territory is imminent to gang affiliations and other uproars. Gangs use systematic lettering tattoos to brand their members. Another widely observed variety are mafia tattoos. This collection use inscriptions of the letters “MM” (Mafia Mexicana), initials EME beneath an eagle/snake and lastly a black hand. Christians show their devotion by embracing grace with tattoos of either the Virgin Mary, image of Christ or the cross.
The originality and emotional sentiments linked to Mexican style tattoos make them extremely favorable. Some of them even signify milestones in life such as the “Mexican Skull Tattoo.” Remembering their relatives who have passed, Mexicans sacrifice a place on their skin in memory. It is typical of hard-working Mexicans to support their family by working outside their territory. To show pride of their heritage, they ink their skins with the Mexican flag, classified as a “Mexican pride tattoo.”
Mexican tattoos signify devotion and has meaning to their heritage. For this reason, it is sensible to research about the mythological symbols thoroughly. This is to avoid confusion and insult to their culture. Many Mexicans prefer vibrant colors with their tattoos, a peculiar way of harmonizing drama and life. Color choice mainly depend on the purpose of tattooing the skin. Blue, black, gray and red inks are the typical colors used with their tattoo designs.
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