Plague doctor tattoos are very popular among those interested in the dark and spooky.As a popular figure in gothic folklore, the plague doctor has become a favorite tattoo for those who want to add a mysterious and poignant tattoo to their collection.
The plague doctor tattoo is a must-have for those who want to bring their love of the dark side of life to the forefront.
Here you’ll find everything you need to know, from the history of this popular tattoo to helpful tips to help you plan the design with your tattoo artist.
Meaning of the plague doctor tattoo
Plague doctor tattoos are inspired by the era of the black plague epidemic, when doctors wore bird masks and long dark robes to see patients.
Since death was everywhere in those days, nothing good could be expected when a plague doctor approached you.
In general, the meanings of the plague doctor tattoo are as follows:
- The ephemerality of life;
- Mortality;
- Recovery from illness;
- A tribute to medicine.
First of all, when planning your tattoo design, you need to think about what feelings the sight of the plague doctor evokes in you.
If you look like many, the sight of a long-brimmed mask, dark robe, and tall hat probably sends shivers down your spine.
Use these sentiments to determine the best plague doctor tattoo sketch for you.
If you are a horror fan and want to make your tattoo as scary as possible, look for a more realistic tattoo style.
On the other hand, the image of the plague doctor may have a special meaning to you that doesn’t include as much gloom.If this is the case, choose a more vivid style of tattoo.
Many who get plague doctor tattoos prefer to make the theme brighter by using bright colors, although this is somewhat less common.
Plague doctor tattoo styles
Now that you have all the information you need to choose the perfect plague doctor tattoo design, it’s time to do your research!
A huge step in planning any tattoo is to research the different styles of tattoos.
American traditional plague doctor tattoos
Traditional plague doctor tattoos are by far the most popular choice. This is because the American traditional tattoo style best represents the grim realism of the dark ages, bringing the horror of the plague doctor right to life on your body.
This particular plague doctor tattoo design usually consists of a lack of color with dark and gray ink and artful shading.
With this design, you are sure to evoke a sense of dread in anyone who pauses to appreciate your tattoo.
New school plague doctor tattoos
The new school style tattoo makes for an interesting but effective image of the plague doctor. The new school style plague doctor tattoo design uses bright colors, thick lines, and cartoonishness.
One of the defining characteristics of the plague doctor tattoo is the mask with a long beak, and the new school style tattoo can fully emphasize this feature.
Some of the most impressive new school style plague doctor tattoos bring a sense of lighthearted fun to a frightening theme.
If you’re the kind of person who laughs at life’s darkest situations, perhaps this plague doctor tattoo design is for you.
Unconventional plague doctor tattoos
Tattoo of the plague doctor in dotwork style
Realistic plague doctor tattoos
Sketch tattoos of the plague doctor
Plague doctor tattoo in graphic style
Modern plague doctor tattoos
Size and location of the tattoo
Plague doctor tattoos come in a variety of sizes and can be placed almost anywhere on the body.
With so much freedom to place your new tattoo anywhere you see fit, it can seem a bit overwhelming to choose the perfect size and location.
Because of the significance associated with the plague doctor and the fact that this tattoo design is especially popular with horror fans, it is not uncommon to place this work of art in a prominent location.
Many people prefer to place their plague doctor tattoos on their shoulder, leg, or ribs.
These areas give tattoo artists enough room to add all the necessary details to create an impressive work of art.
If you prefer a slightly smaller tattoo, there are still various placement options available to you.
Small tattoos can be placed on a small part of your arm, leg or shoulder, for example, and they will still catch your eye regardless of size. Consider size and placement when planning a plague doctor tattoo.
