Scottish Tattoo Photo #21921

The thistle, tartan patterns, and interlocking knotwork form a visual language that connects wearers to Scotland's history and landscape. Thistle, lion rampant, and national emblems The thistle is Scotland's national flower, chosen for its resilient beauty and the legend that its thorns alerted sleeping Scots to a Norse invasion.

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.

The ribcage offers a private placement that only shows when the wearer chooses. Its curved surface adds dimension to designs, though the area is known for being one of the more sensitive spots to tattoo.