15 Notorious Mob Tattoo Designs
The world of organized crime has always been shrouded in mystery and intrigue, with tattoos playing a significant role in identifying members and symbolizing their affiliation. From the Yakuza in Japan to the Crips in the United States, tattoos have been used to signify loyalty, rank, and even specific crimes committed. Here, we delve into the world of notorious mob tattoo designs, exploring their meanings, origins, and the infamous individuals who wore them.
The Yakuza’s Irezumi Tradition
The Yakuza, Japan’s largest organized crime syndicate, has a long history of using tattoos to identify members and signify rank. The traditional Japanese art of Irezumi, which dates back to the 17th century, involves intricate, detailed designs that cover large areas of the body.
- Koi Fish: A popular Yakuza tattoo design, the koi fish represents perseverance and good fortune.
- Dragons: Symbolizing power and strength, dragons are often worn by high-ranking Yakuza members.
- Cherry Blossoms: Representing the fleeting nature of life, cherry blossoms are a common motif in Yakuza tattoos.
The Mafia’s Omertà Code
The Italian Mafia, also known as Cosa Nostra, has a strict code of silence known as Omertà. Tattoos play a significant role in identifying members and signifying loyalty.
- The Skull: A common Mafia tattoo design, the skull represents death and the willingness to die for the organization.
- The Cross: Symbolizing protection and loyalty, the cross is often worn by Mafia members.
- The Snake: Representing deceit and betrayal, the snake is often used to signify a member’s willingness to do whatever it takes to protect the organization.
The Russian Mafia’s Prison Tattoos
The Russian Mafia has a long history of using tattoos to identify members and signify rank. Prison tattoos, in particular, are a staple of Russian organized crime.
- Stars: Representing time served in prison, stars are often worn on the shoulders or chest.
- Crosses: Symbolizing faith and protection, crosses are common in Russian Mafia tattoos.
- Skulls: Representing death and the willingness to die for the organization, skulls are a popular design.
The Mexican Mafia’s Black Hand
The Mexican Mafia, also known as La Eme, has a significant presence in the United States. Tattoos play a crucial role in identifying members and signifying loyalty.
- The Black Hand: A distinctive tattoo design, the black hand represents the Mexican Mafia’s power and authority.
- The Skull: Symbolizing death and the willingness to die for the organization, the skull is a common design.
- The Cross: Representing protection and loyalty, the cross is often worn by Mexican Mafia members.
The Crips and Bloods’ Gang Tattoos
The Crips and Bloods, two of the most notorious gangs in the United States, use tattoos to identify members and signify affiliation.
- The Blue and Red Colors: Representing the Crips and Bloods, respectively, these colors are often used in tattoo designs.
- The Six-Pointed Star: A common Crips tattoo design, the six-pointed star represents the organization’s values and principles.
- The Pirus: Representing the Bloods’ Piru set, this tattoo design is often worn by members.
🚨 Note: These tattoo designs should not be attempted or replicated, as they are often associated with organized crime and can have serious consequences.
Infamous Mob Figures and Their Tattoos
Some of the most notorious mob figures in history have worn these tattoo designs, including:
- Lucky Luciano: The infamous Italian-American mobster was known for his intricate tattoos, including a snake coiled around his right arm.
- Al Capone: The notorious Chicago gangster wore a distinctive tattoo of a snake on his left arm.
- Whitey Bulger: The Irish-American mobster was known for his extensive tattoo collection, including a skull and crossbones on his chest.
In conclusion, these notorious mob tattoo designs are a fascinating look into the world of organized crime. From the Yakuza’s Irezumi tradition to the Mexican Mafia’s Black Hand, these tattoos represent loyalty, rank, and even specific crimes committed. While these designs should not be attempted or replicated, they offer a glimpse into the mysterious and often brutal world of organized crime.
What is the significance of the Yakuza’s Irezumi tradition?
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The Yakuza’s Irezumi tradition is a centuries-old art form that involves intricate, detailed designs that cover large areas of the body. These tattoos signify loyalty, rank, and even specific crimes committed.
What does the skull tattoo represent in the Mafia?
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The skull tattoo represents death and the willingness to die for the organization. It is a common design in Mafia tattoos and signifies loyalty and dedication.
What is the significance of the Black Hand tattoo in the Mexican Mafia?
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The Black Hand tattoo represents the Mexican Mafia’s power and authority. It is a distinctive design that signifies loyalty and affiliation with the organization.
