Classic motif anchor: meaning and history

The anchor is without question one of the most popular tattoo motifs - and has been for hundreds of years. Because already in the 19th century the first anchor tattoos were found on the arms of sailors. Today, the classic tattoo is a symbol of safety, love and stability. Here you can find out how the nautical instrument became a trendy motif and what makes it so timeless.

Anchor: origin and meaning

If there is one tattoo motif that is indeed timeless, it is probably the anchor. After all, it is not only considered one of the first tattoo motifs ever, but is also one of the few that has been able to hold its own to this day, despite ever-changing tattoo trends. The anchor as a ship accessory that ensures that the ship stays in place and withstands any storm, no matter how strong, has been a popular motif since everyone. Its significance dates back to ancient times, at that time as a symbol of the Christian faith. Later, Freemasons and, during the German occupation in the Second World War, Polish resistance fighters also used the anchor as a symbol of identification. Even before that, the versatile symbol found its way under the skin of sailors. First as a sign for sailors who crossed the Atlantic, later also as a symbol for the home port and the love of the sea. No wonder that the anchor as a tattoo motif initially spread mainly in port cities such as Hamburg. Today, the anchor has long since made it into the tattoo studios of this world - and is more fashionable than ever. This may also be due to the versatile meaning of the tattoo classic. On the one hand, it stands for protection and security, and is therefore often stung in connection with the names of friends and family members - the people who stand by you even in stormy times. On the other hand, it is also increasingly seen as a symbol of love and support, and can also express the connection to the homeland and one's own roots or simply a sense of adventure.

Different designs

As varied as the meaning of the anchor motif is, so are the styles with which tattoo artists bring the classic under the skin of their customers. While men often opt for larger tattoos in the old-school style, based on the origins of the motif, women want more delicate, minimalist designs. The anchor is then found, for example, as a small tattoo on the finger, behind the ear or on the ankle. The anchor is often chosen in combination with other motifs, such as the compass or names of family members and friends.