Originally posted on February 4, 2022 @ 7:00 am
For decades, black panthers have been viewed across the world as a symbol of strength, darkness and night, beauty, grace, and even inner power.
Black panthers are known for their unique ability as shapeshifters, blending into their dark surroundings to become the ultimate masters of disguise. Equally intriguing and beautiful, there is an air of mystery surrounding black panthers.
While technically referring to any large cat with a black coat, the term black panther is certainly quite memorable for many people for many reasons. Aside from the love people have for the mammal itself or their appreciation for the symbolism they hold, the fantastic ways the imagery of black panthers has been used in pop culture has drawn people to them.
An example of this is the very widely adored Marvel Universe movie Black Panther. Since the movie’s initial release, the merchandise from it can be found anywhere. Thus making the imagery and symbolism of the black panther itself popular culture and readily available! Regardless of their reasoning for holding affection or favoritism towards black panthers, many people have commonly opted to utilize their appearance for tattoos.
There are indeed many ways to design it with varying options of having a realistic black panther tattoo, sticking to a traditional black panther tattoo, or perhaps doing something unique and outside the box!
This article will explore 50 different black panther tattoo design categories and some examples. Hopefully, this will act as a helpful resource for anyone looking for inspiration on a black panther tattoo.
Black Panther Tattoo Ideas:
1. Realistic Black Panther Tattoos
As previously mentioned, many people hold a specific love for black panthers and the symbolism they hold. Because of this, frequently, people want as accurate a portrayal of a black panther tattooed on them as humanly possible. Realistic tattoos are incredibly eye-catching and bold! Because of the immense detail they need, a very seasoned, professional tattoo artist is usually required for such a job.
Amazing tattoo artists can often make an animal or portrait look so realistic that it is jaw-dropping to anyone who witnesses it. So, it’s no wonder at all that folks opt for the most realistic version of whatever tattoo they’re choosing. Here’s a few examples of some phenomenally realistic black panther tattoos;
2. Traditional Black Panther Tattoos
Traditional tattoos, in general, are credited to have taken off after the Second World War. None have arguably stayed as popular, though, like that of the black panther. Initially, this traditional tattoo was seen as a sign of courage and strength, not to mention its large black body made it a perfect tattoo for cover-up jobs. It was often posed in a crawling-type position, almost as if to signify it was on the prowl or about ready to attack its prey.
A traditional black panther tattoo may also be done with claws out or seemingly ripping through the skin. Other times, these tattoos are done as just the head of the black panther or with the giant cat adorned in a jungle motif. If you think a traditional black panther tattoo may be something you’d like, check out these links for some added inspiration;
3. Small Black Panther Tattoos
Maybe you want a tattoo, but you’re not confident that you feel like devoting a whole lot of precious real-estate on your body to it. That’s not a problem in the slightest! Many people opt to get tinier tattoos. This is because they’re versatile enough to fit perfectly in the smallest locations, like behind your ear, between your fingers, on your wrists, or even your face (if you’re adventurous and into facial tattoos).
Regardless of the location you choose or the meaning behind it, smaller tattoos carry just as much of a purpose as large ones. Though maybe not as eye-grabbing as something much larger than it, a smaller tattoo can still be incredibly detailed if done right. Thinking about perhaps making your black panther tattoo on the smaller side? Then this link may have the options you’re looking for;
4. Marvel’s Black Panther Tattoos
Marvel’s Black Panther movie was initially released in 2018 and starred actor Chadwick Boseman (RIP). Boseman plays T’Challa, heir to the throne of Wakanda. Since the movie’s initial release, the character Black Panther has been viewed as a symbol of courage, strength, resilience, the love of one’s family, and so much more.
Since it has become such a massive global phenomenon, Marvel’s Black Panther tattoos have become increasingly sought after. Regardless if for their love of the movie, their love of Chadwick Boseman, or because of the symbolism the character possesses – many fans are jumping at the opportunity to get a tattoo of the Black Panther. Are you a huge Marvel fan or Black Panther fanatic, looking for some suggestions for a tattoo? Try out some of these links below;
5. Geometric Black Panther Tattoos
Although completely credited to ancient times, in the last decade, the use of geometric style tattoos has taken off! Geometric tattoos are simply tattoos that heavily feature shapes, lines, or a shapely pattern. While incredibly eye-catching, geometric shape tattoos also look sharp and bold. The shapes can sometimes take on more of the background, accentuating whatever image is placed alongside them – in this case, a black panther. While other times, the entire image is made out of geometric shapes.
With black panthers being such a strikingly bold and beautiful animal, it only makes sense that someone would pair a tattoo of one with something equally as aesthetically appealing. For that reason, pairing a black panther and a geometric print would make for a beautiful work of art. If you think that a geometric style black panther tattoo may be up your alley, check out some of these options.
6. Floral Black Panther Tattoos
Considered a jungle cat, it’s no question of the fact that black panthers spend much of their time immersed within green fauna and trees. A lot of the time, when folks are considering a tattoo, they’re also thinking of what could surround said tattoo. This is often the case for people who intend upon having a complete moral or even a sleeve.
However, any tattoo can have an associated background or attached smaller pieces. So, it’s only fitting that in the case of a black panther tattoo, one takes into consideration that perhaps a floral or natural background would suffice. If something like this sounds appealing to you, then consider looking into the following links;
7. Black Panther with a Woman/Warrior Tattoos
In both traditional and contemporary tattoos, it is very common for a woman’s body or face to be paired with a large animal. Consistent with black panther tattoos, tattoos of women can hold a different meaning to whomever it is getting it done.
Tattoos of women can symbolize beauty, independence, good luck, or even heroism. It has very similar symbolic meanings, pairing a tattoo of a black panther with a woman very cohesive! If perhaps you’re thinking of adding gorgeous heroin alongside your majestic black panther, then take a look at some of these ideas;
8. Colorful Black Panther Tattoos
With black panthers being such a dark animal, it may seem fitting to some to accentuate a tattoo depicting them with bright and bold colors. While a colorful background may not seem appealing to some, other folks love a good pop of color within their tattoos.
Many people will take this as an opportunity to create a natural scene, a beautiful sunset, or even a moonlit sky – all of which would make an excellent backdrop for this jungle cat. If you think you may enjoy some playful colors intertwined with your black panther tattoo, then take a look at these pieces for some inspiration;
9. Black Panther with Sword Tattoos
Another ubiquitous combination of tattoos is a black panther and a sword. Tattoos of panthers and swords can come in a traditional style or even in new wave styles of tattooing. The meaningfulness behind this tattoo is enough to have many people flocking to get one.
Symbolizing strength, perseverance, and overcoming life’s most significant obstacles and adversity – there’s no question as to why this is such a winning combo for so many! While a sword is commonly the weapon of choice, knives, daggers, and axes are often used. If a sword and black panther is a combination that sounds good to you, check out these beautifully done tattoos;
10. Black Panther with Snake Tattoos
The last category of black panther tattoos to explore is that of black panthers and snakes being tattooed together. Often, the snake is portrayed as being wrapped around the muscular body to show an epic struggle. This symbolizes the overcoming of great odds, all while being a testament to personal strength and determination.
Much like tattoos of black panthers and swords or women, tattoos in this category often take on a very traditional aesthetic style. However, with a little bit of creativity, it’s possible to have a unique and contemporary piece in this style. If a tattoo of a black panther and a snake sounds at all appealing to you, then take a look at some of these;
In conclusion, there truly is no questioning the mass popularity and love for black panther tattoos. Black panther tattoos have been around for decades and have seen so many variations brought to life; it’s made it, so people who want this style of tattoo have many options. Whether you choose to depict a more realistic black panther tattoo, a traditional black panther tattoo, something entirely new or unique, or even something from a movie franchise, you’re sure to have a beautiful and striking result.
