Egyptian Tattoo Designs: Symbols of Power, Myth, and Ink

Tattoo Knowledge Base

Egyptian Tattoo Designs: Power, Mystery, and Meaning in Every Ink Stroke

Egyptian civilization is one of the oldest and most fascinating ancient cultures in the world. And when it comes to a theme for a tattoo, these pieces exude power and mystique. Egyptian tattoo designs are in a league of their own. These designs show off divine power, royal heritage, and spiritual symbolism. At CB Ink Brisbane, clients bring us bold ideas rooted in mythology, and we bring them to life using black and grey realism, fine line work, and a variety of custom tattooing techniques.

From iconic gods like Anubis and Bastet to detailed hieroglyphic language and cosmic scarabs, Egyptian tattoos are both timeless and dramatic. Below, we explore the most powerful themes in Egyptian ink, how they translate into tattoos, and what makes each design special.

Eye of Horus Tattoos

Black and Grey Fine Line Traditional Eye of Horus Ancient Egyptian Symbol Detailed Shading Iris Sharp Arrow Bold Eyebrow Forearm Tattoo
Blackwork Fine Line Minimalist Eye of Horus Ancient Egyptian Symbol Bold Ankh Shaped Cross with Loop Forearm Tattoo

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Protection, Intuition, and Awakening

The Eye of Horus has long been recognised as a symbol of divine protection and spiritual insight. In tattooing, it blends clean symmetry with deep esoteric meaning. It can symbolise healing, watchfulness, and the ability to see through illusions.

A forearm piece featuring blackwork shading or fine dotwork gives the Eye a strong visual presence. If you are looking for a more hidden or discreet tattoo, this design works well on the side of the neck, behind the ear, or along the ribs.

Anubis Tattoos

Black and Grey Realism Blackwork Anubis Jackals Head Eye of Horus Ancient Egyptian Symbol Bold Ankh Shaped Cross with Loop Scarab Beetle Pyramid Forearm Hand Tattoo
Black and Grey Realism Blackwork Anubis Jackals Head Eye of Horus Ancient Egyptian Symbol Bold Ankh Shaped Cross with Loop Scarab Beetle Pyramid Desert Hand Sleeve Arm Tattoo

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Guardian of the Afterlife

Anubis was a god tasked with protecting souls and guiding them into the afterlife. In Egyptian mythology, he symbolised judgment, mummification, and the balance between death and protection.

Tattooing Anubis in black and grey realism allows for lifelike details and shading that bring out his otherworldly character. Common placements include the upper arm, chest, or a full sleeve with pyramids and sacred geometry.

Cleopatra Tattoos

Black and Grey Realism Fine Line Dotwork Cleopatra Portrait Ancient Egyptian Symbol Eye of Horus Pyramid Ankh Shaped Cross with Loop Script Lettering Upper Shoulder Arm Tattoo
Black and Grey Realism Fineline Geometric Mandala Dotwork Cleopatra Portrait Ancient Egyptian Symbol Detailed Eyes Nose Lips Headdress Ancient Necklace Earrings Upper Shoulder Arm Tattoo

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Strength, Royalty, and Legacy

A Cleopatra tattoo captures the essence of a ruler who was both politically sharp and culturally iconic. Cleopatra pieces often use fine line techniques to capture facial details and incorporate ornamental patterns.

Thighs, upper arms, and calf areas provide enough canvas for a highly detailed portrait. This can include jewellery, snakes, and throne elements to represent her reign.

Bastet Tattoos

Colour Realism Fineline Geometric Bastet Cat Goddess Portrait Ancient Egyptian Symbol Eye of Horus Detailed Ears with Piercing Nose Whiskers Leg Calf Tattoo
Black and Grey Realism Fineline Geometric Bastet Cat Sphinx Goddess Portrait Ancient Egyptian Symbol Detailed Eye Ears Flowers Blooms Petals Ornate Collar Arm Forearm Tattoo

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Divine Feminine and Home Protection

The feline goddess Bastet was believed to guard homes and represent fertility, joy, and family. A Bastet tattoo can range from stylised minimalist blackwork to elaborate neo traditional pieces.

Designs might include a regal sphynx cat with ornamental collars, or a more mystical interpretation using dotwork mandalas and glowing eyes. Ideal placements include the shoulder blade, back, or sternum.

Nefertiti Tattoos

Black and Grey Realism Fineline Geometric Nefertiti Portrait Ancient Egyptian Symbol Detailed Eye of Horus Nose Lips Crown Ancient Ornate Collar Leaves Behind Forearm Tattoo
Colour Neo Traditional Realism Fineline Nefertiti Portrait Ancient Egyptian Symbol Detailed Eye Nose Lips Crown Ancient Ornate Collar Forearm Tattoo

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Elegance, Revolution, and Female Empowerment

Nefertiti remains a symbol of grace and revolutionary beauty. Tattoo designs honouring her often rely on symmetry and linework to showcase her iconic profile and elaborate headdress.

Use of soft colour washes like watercolour can enhance the aesthetic without overwhelming the fine detail. Or go for a traditional or black and grey approach. Perfect for forearm, ribs, or upper back pieces.

Scarab Beetle Tattoos

Colour Neo Traditional Realism Full Body Scarab Beetles Red Disc Blue Sphere Ancient Egyptian Symbol Detailed Wings Labrum Antenna Elytron Claws Elbow Forearm Tattoo
Realism Fine Line Full Body Scarab Beetle Round Disc Sphere Ancient Egyptian Symbol Detailed Wings Labrum Antenna Elytron Claws Elbow Abdomen Ribs Sternum Tattoo

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Transformation and Solar Power

In Egyptian tattoo symbolism, the scarab beetle is closely linked to rebirth and the rising sun. As a tattoo, it channels personal evolution, inner strength, and divine alignment.

These work brilliantly as sternum tattoos, symmetrical chest pieces, or as central elements in geometric back tattoos. Detailed linework and dot shading add texture and depth.

Sphinx Tattoos

Traditional Colour Geometric Full Body Sphinx Body of Lion Human Head Forearm Tattoo Ancient Egyptian Symbol Eye Nose Lips Wing Forearm Tattoo
Black and Grey Realism Sphinx Ancient Egyptian Symbol Khafre Human Head Detailed Eyes Nose Ears Camels Desert Stones Pyramid Arm Forearm Tattoo

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Wisdom and Mystery

The Sphinx is an ancient statue that guards the Pyramids of Giza. No one is certain as to how old the structure is, but if you believe people like Joe Rogan or Graham Hancock. It could be thousands of years older than previously thought. It combines the physical power of a lion with the intellect of humanity. It traditionally represents the protection of sacred sites.

A neo traditional Sphinx with bold outlines and dramatic colour blocking brings modern impact. Ideal as a leg piece or across the upper back for full presence.

Pyramid Tattoos

Traditional Black and Grey Fineline Pyramids Bricks Sun Light Shading Palm Trees Sharp Edges Forearm Tattoo
Realism Black and Grey Pyramids Planets Stars Saturn Desert Fine Sands Sharp Edges Apex Forearm Tattoo

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Spiritual Ascent and Timeless Power

Pyramids in tattoo art can represent structure, divine connection, and enduring strength. Minimalist or highly detailed, they suit a wide variety of placements.

Backpieces and half sleeves can incorporate pyramid scenery with sun motifs and ancient landscapes, while a forearm micro tattoo offers a clean, subtle look.

Falcon Tattoos

Traditional Black and Grey Falcon Bird Ancient Egyptian Symbol Bold Ankh Shaped Cross Loop Detailed Wings Beak Eye Tail Upper Shoulder Arm Tattoo
Traditional Colour Falcon Bird Ancient Egyptian Symbol Bold Ankh Shaped Cross Loop Sun Backdrop Detailed Wings Beak Eye Tail Abdomen Ribs Belly Sternum Tattoo

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Royal Power and Vision

Falcons are closely tied to Horus, making them symbols of strength, divine kingship, and insight. Their sharp vision and flight path embody clarity and a higher perspective.

Tattoo styles range from fine line outlines to black and grey realism. A falcon tattoo perched atop hieroglyphs or shown mid-flight works well on the upper arm, ribs, or chest.

Hieroglyph Tattoos

Blackwork Black and Grey Hieroglyph Ancient Egyptian Symbol Pyramid Falcon Bird Depicts Pyramids Bold Cracked Border Arm Forearm Tattoo
Black and Grey Geometric Fine Line Hieroglyph Ancient Egyptian Symbol Depicts Wing Lunar Shapes Moon Phases Circles Lines Sun Hieroglyphs Sphinx Dots Arm Tattoo

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Ancient Language and Personal Meaning

Hieroglyph tattoos allow you to personalise your ink with the depth of ancient language. Used for names, prayers, or intentions, they’re a great option for those looking to connect with ancient Egyptian spirituality.

Linework is essential here, ensuring clarity and precision. These can be placed along the spine, wrapped around the wrist, or integrated into larger Egyptian-themed tattoos.

Custom Egyptian Tattoo Work at CB Ink Brisbane

Every Egyptian tattoo carries with it centuries of culture and storytelling. At CB Ink Brisbane, our artists specialise in black and grey realism, fine line work, and custom designs that bring ancient inspiration into modern tattoo art.

We collaborate with each client to develop personalised pieces that capture the essence of what Egyptian mythology means to them. Whether it’s a large-scale backpiece or a compact symbol full of depth, our team is ready to bring your vision to life.

Visit CB Ink Brisbane to begin your journey into the rich and powerful world of Egyptian tattoos. Book a consultation today and start crafting a design rooted in history, honour, and visual impact.

If you still have some questions or concerns, feel free to send us a message and we’ll be glad to help!

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