Scarab Tattoo Photo #9697
The scarab beetle occupies a central place in Egyptian mythology as a symbol of rebirth, the rising sun, and divine creation. The dung beetle's habit of rolling a ball across the ground mirrored the sun god Khepri pushing the sun across the sky.
Using only black ink at different dilutions, this style achieves a photographic quality with rich shadows and soft highlights. Black and grey work is versatile enough for portraits, nature scenes, and symbolic imagery.
Forearm tattoos benefit from a natural canvas that follows the arm's long shape. Designs can wrap around the arm or sit on the inner or outer surface, giving flexibility in how the tattoo is displayed.