Scottish Tattoo Photo #21935

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.

Inspired by jewelry, architecture, and textile patterns, ornamental tattoos create intricate, decorative compositions on the skin. Precision and symmetry are key, giving these pieces an almost meditative quality.

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.