The Tattoo Culture in the Victorian Era: Inks Inspired by the Royal Family

The Social Perception of Tattoos

In the early part of this era, tattoos were largely associated with sailors, soldiers, and criminals. However, by the mid-19th century, a transformation had begun—reaching all the way to the aristocracy and even the royal family. Journeys to exotic lands such as Japan and Polynesia introduced the artistic dimension of tattooing to Western society.Some specialized artists began to cater to the upper classes. These tattoos, painstakingly applied by hand, became a symbol of “noble bravery”—a bold expression of elite identity.

Queen Victoria’s Tattoo: Fact or Myth?

Although there is no definitive evidence that Queen Victoria herself had a tattoo, interest in tattooing was undeniably strong within royal circles. Prince Edward (later Edward VII) and Prince George (later George V) both received tattoos during visits to Japan. Their fascination helped establish tattooing as a prestigious symbol across European aristocracy.Rumors suggested that the Queen might have had a small cross or a family crest tattooed on her body, but these stories remain unverified. Still, the enthusiasm within royal circles greatly influenced the social acceptance of tattoos.

Victorian Aesthetics and Tattoo Designs

Tattoos of this era often featured floral motifs, crosses, hearts, family crests, and animal figures. They were typically applied to the hands, forearms, or shoulders. Since tattoo machines had not yet been developed, artists manually inserted pigment into the skin—using techniques similar to Japan’s traditional tebori method.

The Tattoo as a Marker of Status and Narrative

Thanks to the interest of the royal family, tattooing evolved from a “lower-class” practice into a marker of status. In this period, tattoos were not only aesthetic but also served as expressions of belonging and personal storytelling—much like they do today.The Victorian era was a pivotal point where tattooing was redefined and transcended class boundaries. With the influence of the royal family, this art form transformed from a hidden fascination into a respected declaration of identity. As tattoo artists today, we carry the legacy of this cultural journey on our shoulders.