The history of Compass Tattoo

Do you know how long has the history tattoo been? Do you know who was the first person to have a tattoo? Do you know the origin of Compass Tattoo? Do you know what special meaning the Compass Symbol Tattoo has? Do you know what other symbols Compass Symbol often comes with?

Tattoos hold a rich and intriguing history, extending across thousands of years and multiple cultures. From the ancient Egyptians to the aboriginal people of the Pacific Islands, tattoos have been applied as a form of self-expression, spiritual commitment, and cultural identity This article will briefly comb tattoo and Compass tattoo history.

What is the prehistoric history of tattoos?

As a kind of graphic language common to the whole world, the meaning of tattoos has changed along with the progress of human history. This behavior has a long history and has existed in different social periods and cultural backgrounds.

Humans have experienced more than 10,000 years from the oldest rock petroglyphs in the Old Stone Age to the first tattooed person, the Iceman Otzi. 

( Prehistoric paintings in Spain’s Altamira cave, up to 20,000 years old)

(A horse on the ceiling of Lascaux Cave in Dordogne, France, up to 17,300 years old)

(the first person to have a tattoo was the Iceman Otzi, up to 5,300 years old)

During the Ice Age, before 8,000 BC, many pottery bowls with traces of red and black paint were found in caves around the world, including in France, Portugal, Romania, and Scandinavia, as well as some pointed bone "needles" made of antlers and other broken bones (perhaps the earliest tattooing tools), and several small figurines with strong hints of tattoos.

(The common definitions of "Scandinavia")

When it comes to Scandinavia, the Vikings should play an important role. It can be said that the Scandinavians include the group of Vikings, and the former has a larger scope than the latter and includes not only ancient times but also modern times. The culture of the Vikings has an important influence on the culture of the entire Europe.

The Origin of Compass Tattoo 

The Vikings (Vikings) are the Nordic pirates, famous for their sailing and nautical techniques. They have been harassing the coasts of Europe and the British islands from the 8th to the 11th centuries, and their footprints have reached the vast territory from the European continent to the Arctic. This period is called the "Viking Age" in Europe. For centuries, they often drove small boats to attack the coasts of northwest England and France. They were not afraid of wind and rain, or the unknown. They were the lords of the ocean. They were adventurers, explorers, merchants, and plunderers. In legends, the Vikings wore horned helmets, were dirty all over, their long tangled hair and beards were mixed, and used human skulls as wine bowls. History depicts the Vikings as clumsy barbarians with strong muscles and bodies. They covered their bodies with various meaningful symbols, and their bodies were covered with traditional sacred tattoos everywhere.

(Viking with traditional sacred tattoos)

The Vikings' tattoos were made up of the ancient symbols of Old Norse, and they used the ancient designs from Norse mythology, which also existed in their jewelry, carved bones, ships, and other components. The Viking tattoos symbolize bravery, fearlessness, and the willingness to explore the unknown world. Nowadays, the Vikings' tattoos are very popular among people with Nordic bloodlines, and they like to tattoo these patterns on their bodies to show their roots, while other enthusiasts are attracted by Norse mythology, culture, and beliefs. In the Viking culture, the following symbols act as extremely important roles. 

(The extremely important symbols of Viking culture)

Vegvisir（viking compass）

The ancient Norse characters, meaning the compass, represent the direction indicator, and the extended meaning is to be able to see the road in the distance, to protect the holder from losing themselves, and to also protect the holder from losing what they already have.

Aegishjalmur

The ancient Norse characters, meaning the awe-inspiring tiller, are very kind to the holder and are used to protect the holder from being harmed in the battle, and it is also invincible at the same time.

Gapaldur and Ginfaxi

The runes are used to protect the safety of the holder in the fight, and most of them are used in the Vikings' recognized combats in nature.

Hraethigaldur and Ottastafur

The runes are generally tattooed in the position of the chest, symbolizing the terrifying power and making the enemy afraid.

Sleeping stabs

Allow the warrior to remain vigilant in sleep, assist in the most critical situation, and at the same time make any enemy who tries to approach the holder fall asleep.

GiboAuja

The lucky runes, whose meaning is to bless health. Healing runes: Represent recovery. These cultural symbols reflect the values and beliefs of the Vikings and are also symbols of their identity and culture.

What is the meaning of Compass Tattoos(Vegvisir)?

Compass Tattoo symbols like other Viking symbols and their meaning show a deep expression of everything related to protection, love, superstition, and religion. These symbols were used by the Nordic people who lived in Northern Europe between the 8th and 11th centuries. Most of these symbols are closely related to history. Because many of the events that happened during the Nordic mythology are represented.As well as their characters and particularly the gods they worshipped.Because Viking's symbols and their meaning are still very much present in Europe. They tell us about adventures, they tell us about love and traditions. Thanks to historians we can know these symbols of the Viking civilization. As well as what is spoken of them in the manuscripts that are still preserved.A revisit (Icelandic for signpost or Wayfinder) is an Icelandic magical stave intended to help the bearer find their way through the weather. The symbol is attested in the Huld Manuscript, collected in Iceland by Geir Vigfusson in 1880 (but consisting of material of earlier origin). A leaf of the manuscript provides an image of the revisit, gives its name, and, in prose, declares that "if this sign is carried, one will never lose one's way in storms or bad weather, even when the way is not known"(--From Wikipedia)

Vegvísir is also known as the Viking compass. It is a magic symbol that is used to guide people in bad weather or when the visibility is very low. It is also known as a "road sign" or "direction sign".

This word comes from Icelandic, and its meaning is "mark". In turn, it is divided into two terms: Veg, which comes from vegur, meaning path, and Wazir, meaning "guidance" or "instruction".

In ancient times, the Vikings used Vegvísir to warn other inhabitants in the Nordic region that they had these amulets, which could give them good luck in reaching their destination safely. Today, it is still used as a good luck omen is also used for positioning, and is common in tattoos of different shapes and sizes.

This instrument is related to the traditional compass, especially those compasses used by Nordic seafarers that use sunlight to work. Its shape is similar to the compass rose we see on maps today.

This symbol helps the people who use it not to get lost and find the safest route to reach the destination.

Vegvísir is composed of symbols that are similar to the symbols found in runes called Galdrastafur or sigil in Icelandic. It is a kind of symbol that represents a set of letters connected.

It has eight endpoints, and in its center is the ninth symbol. All of these represent the nine worlds embodied in Norse mythology. Inside them are the upper worlds composed of Asgard, Vanaheim, and Lichtalfheim; the middle view worlds consist of Muspellheim, Midgard, and Niflheim, and the lower view worlds consist of Svartálfaheim, Jötunheim, and Hel.

On the other hand, people also believe that Vegvísir shows the eight basic points that the Vikings used to determine their position at sea during those well-known long voyages.

the Viking compass(Vegvisir)Today

Nowadays, Vegvisir, the Viking compass, is used by followers of the new Viking religion, Asatru, as a common symbol of their membership in the faith. For them, it is also utilized as a symbol of guidance, both in the physical and spiritual worlds, but instead of being a magical symbol, it is one of faith.

Some practitioners of modern rune magic have asserted that it is not significant that we do not know the meaning of the individual elements of the runic stave, and that as long as it is recreated faithfully, it will retain its power.

However, considering that the runic stave has been preserved over time through hand copying in manuscripts, how probable is it that the version we know today resembles the original? Considering the story of Egil and what it tells us about the dangers of using the runes incorrectly, is it risky to rely on a runic stave like Vegvisir that we do not truly comprehend?

What do you think? While Vegvisir is a powerful symbol of allegiance to the Norse religion and can also serve as a talisman of guidance for those who believe, do you think that the rune retains its magical power despite the knowledge that we have lost?

Have you seen our epic range of Vegvisir jewelry? We at Odin's Cave sell lots of various patterns and designs.

Modern Compass Tattoo Art

Modern Compass Tattoo Art has emerged as a captivating and meaningful form of body art. In this contemporary iteration, the compass takes on a new level of significance and expression within the world of tattooing.

One of the notable manifestations of modern Compass Tattoo Art is the diverse range of designs and styles. Tattoo artists skillfully incorporate the compass into various visual compositions, creating unique and personalized pieces. From minimalist and geometric designs to intricate and detailed illustrations, the compass can be rendered in a way that suits each individual's taste and style.

The symbolism associated with the modern compass in tattoo art goes beyond mere navigation. It represents concepts such as finding one's direction in life, having a sense of purpose, and staying true to oneself. It can serve as a constant reminder of one's values, goals, and the path they choose to follow.

Another aspect is the use of innovative techniques and colors. Artists employ different shading and highlighting methods to bring depth and dimension to the compass tattoo. Vibrant colors or subtle palettes can be used to enhance the overall visual impact and convey specific moods or messages.

Modern Compass Tattoo Art allows for creative interpretations and personalization. It can be combined with other elements, such as quotes, symbols, or imagery, to create a more complex and meaningful design. The possibilities are endless, allowing individuals to express their unique story and identity through this form of tattoo art.

Whether as a small and delicate tattoo or a larger, more elaborate piece, the modern compass continues to captivate and inspire those seeking a visually striking and meaningful tattoo experience.