Oceania

Swallow

Freedom, fidelity |July 07, 2010

Design Story

The swallow is one of the favourite subjects for tattoos, especially in the old school style, and it is associated to several meanings.

Among the most frequently used ones there are freedom and fidelity.

That is because other than being just undefatigable travellers, swallows always returns every year to their old nest.

This Maori styled swallow was requested by Steven.

The body is made here by the body of a shark, symbolizing adaptability and strength, quality enforced by the stylized shark teeth in the wings; the tiki represents protection, the koru a new beginning, a new life, and the fish hook is for prosperity.

Symbols/Meanings included:


Request Your Custom Tattoo

Community Comments

0 / 2000

Flash Offer • 2x1 Bundle

Unlock the Complete Language of Symbols

Download the official PDF Handbooks instantly. Learn the precise meanings, cultural relevance, and traditional layouts behind Polynesian tribal tattoo symbols to design or decode your next custom artwork.

.