60 Eye-Catching Lion Tattoo Designs And Ideas For You To Try

If you are fascinated by tattoos and cannot wait to get yourself inked, look at the lion tattoo designs we have listed here. Owing to the cultural and religious significance the animal lion carries, these tattoos are pretty popular.

Lion, the king of the jungle, is also the king of animal tattoos. In astrology, this animal is depicted as the sign of Leo, and in Greek mythology, the lion is shown as Manticore. Moreover, Romans consider the animal as a representation of love. Also, for Egyptians, the lion stands as a sign of balance, and for the Chinese, the animal symbolizes protection and good luck.

The “Lion of Buddha” is a prevalent theme in Buddhist religious art and in traditional Japanese tattoos. But because the lion was not indigenous to the Far East, tattoo artists there used local animals for inspiration. In fact, the “Foo Dog” or “Fu Dog” often seen sitting at the base of Chinese gates or thrones is actually a lion.

What is more? Christianity considers the lion to be a representation of their faith. In the Islamic culture, the animal and sword symbolize power. And Hindus believe the animal to be a sacred animal that carries the Goddess Durga. This animal is also considered the sun god. Therefore, considering the animal’s immense significance among all, lion tattoo designs are much loved by many.

These tattoos include a wide range of patterns and shades that genuinely depict the most authentic identity of the animal. As the lion signifies bravery, knowledge, bravery, power, strength, change, stability, family, and faith, lion tattoos make the best form of art.

So, if you, too, are excited to get a lion tattoo, scroll down and check out our list below. Let’s get started!

60 Best Lion Tattoo Designs For Women And Men

Lion tattoos can be done in various styles to suit varying artistic tastes from traditional techniques to modern styles like geometric, minimalist, tribal, watercolor, etc. Each style depicts a distinct cultural symbolism and marks a unique way to show your connection to the king of the jungle. So, ready to find yourself the perfect lion tattoo? Browse our collection of curated designs to create a personalized masterpiece for yourself.

1. Lion Family Tattoo

This beautiful tattoo of a lion family exhibits power, unity, and royalty. The lion, lioness, and cub are drawn in black and ash brown with remarkable reality and depth, grabbing the viewer’s attention at first glance.

• Preferable Ink Color: The hues of ash brown and black highlight the lion family’s royal heritage while adding a feeling of royalty and timeless elegance to this tattoo.
• Where: This is best suited for the center of your upper back.
• Size: This design fits an area of 10 cm². This tattoo finds the ideal balance to highlight the fine details of the lion family in an accurate and clear manner.
• Skin Tone: Designed to go well with a variety of skin tones.

2. Lion With Flowers Tattoo

This striking forearm tattoo combines the vibrant colors of marigold flowers and green leaves with a lion’s presence. The lion’s features are drawn in watercolor-styled and deep brown tones with striking black borders, while yellow marigold flowers blossom between green leaves.

• Preferable Ink Color: Deep brown tones highlight the royal presence of a lion, while a vibrant yellow hue symbolizes the life of the marigold flowers. Also, green leaves add refreshing contrast.
• Where: This design, adjusted to fit the forearm, ensures an elegant presentation with every movement.
• Size: This tattoo covers a surface area of 7 cm², allowing for fine detail in every piece.
• Skin Tone: Designed to go well with a variety of skin tones.

3. Minimalist Lion Tattoo

This minimalist ankle tattoo captures the essence of strength and grace with a simple yet classic depiction of a lion. This tattoo serves as a subtle yet powerful reminder of inner strength and determination, making a bold statement with its simplicity.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo highlights the lion’s ageless beauty and strength by using only black ink to represent its honor and power in an elegant way.
• Where: This animal tattoo design is meant to be inked especially on the ankle.
• Size: This tattoo is only a little 3 cm² piece that allows for fine detail to be added to the lion’s characteristics without losing style.
• Skin Tone: Complementing a wide range of skin tones.

4. Unique Lion Clock Tattoo

This captivating thigh tattoo combines the symbolism of a lion’s strength with the stunning beauty of clocks, creating a visually mesmerizing artwork. This lion clock tattoo serves as a reminder to embrace each moment with courage and grace.

• Preferable Ink Color: The combination of light brown and black ink highlights the lion’s classic beauty and the fleeting nature of life with clocks.
• Where: Placed on the thigh, this tattoo commands attention with its placement.
• Size: Approximately 10 cm², providing enough space for detailing of both the lion’s head and clocks.
• Skin Tone: The ink complements a variety of skin tones.

5. Cool Lion Tattoo

This captivating stomach tattoo features a watercolor depiction of a lion, rendered in light brown, light blue, and violet hues. This watercolor lion tattoo is a powerful symbol of inner strength and determination, representing courage, strength, and the wild beauty of nature.

• Preferable Ink Color: Vibrant shades of light brown, light blue, and violet ink create a stunning watercolor effect that makes the lion come to life.
• Where: This tattoo, which is boldly placed on the stomach, highlights the wearer’s body by drawing attention to it.
• Size: The lion’s features can be intricately detailed in this tattoo, providing depth and clarity in the representation.
• Skin Tone: Complements a variety of skin tones with its vibrant colors.

6. Women’s Lion And Cub Tattoo

This wrist tattoo depicts the bond between a lion and its cub, symbolizing love and protection.

• Preferable Ink Color: Designed to reflect individual taste and traditional choices of the lion’s characteristics include tones of black and brown.
• Where: Positioned on the wrist, serving as a constant reminder of family love and protection.
• Size: Small to medium, allowing for intricate detailing while maintaining an elegant look.
• Skin Tone: Complements a variety of skin tones.

7. Lion Cross Tattoo

This striking hand tattoo combines the cross’s symbolism with the royal presence of a lion to create an intricate design. This tattoo of a lion cross, which stands for bravery, spirituality, and inner power, is a powerful declaration of faith and resilience for the person wearing it.

• Preferable Ink Color: Traditional ink colors like black and brown are often chosen based on the wearer’s style and personal preferences.
• Where: This tattoo is noticeably placed on the hand, acting as a visible symbol of strength and faith.
• Size: Medium-sized (5cm²), allowing for a detailed representation of both the lion and the cross while maintaining a balanced appearance on the hand.
• Skin Tone: Complements a variety of skin tones.

8. Traditional Lion Tattoo

This upper back tattoo features a lion surrounded by vibrant flowers and green leaves, capturing the everlasting appeal of traditional tattoo art. It represents power, beauty, and the connectivity of all living things.

• Preferable Ink Color: Brown ink is the preferred choice for this traditional tattoo, which evokes a sense of vintage charm and warmth.
• Where: Centered on the upper back for a noticeable display.
• Size: Medium to large (7 cm²), allowing for detailed representation while maintaining balance.
• Skin Tone: Complements a variety of skin tones.

9. Detroit Lion Tattoo

This Detroit Lion tattoo is a bold expression of support for the football team, representing strength, devotion, and team spirit.

• Preferable Ink Color: The Detroit Lions team colors are represented by vivid blue ink and a strong black border.
• Where: Positioned prominently on the hand, this tattoo serves as a visible symbol of pride and allegiance to the Detroit Lions football team.
• Size: Medium-sized, ensuring the symbol is clearly visible.
• Skin Tone: Complements various skin tones.

10. Lion Heart Tattoo

This elegant and symbolic tattoo of a lion and heart is a great way to add some significance and style to one’s body art collection. It represents bravery, passion, and the power of love.

• Preferable Ink Color: Bold black ink looks great for this design and highlights the fine lines, ensuring a powerful visual effect.
• Where: This tattoo, when placed on the arm, is a deeply personal and significant declaration of strength and love.
• Size: Medium-sized design, allowing for intricate detailing of both the lion and heart.
• Skin Tone: This simple line tattoo is appropriate for all skin tones.

11. Lion And Lioness Tattoo

This tattoo of a lion, lioness, and lotus flower on the upper back is a timeless representation of inner beauty and resilience, signifying strength, love, and spiritual progress.

• Preferable Ink Color: Ash brown and black ink colors may evoke a sense of strength and elegance in the tattoo.
• Where: This tattoo, which commands attention due to its prominent placement on the upper back, is a potent sign of courage, love, and spiritual enlightenment.
• Size: Medium to large, covering a surface area of approximately 10 cm².
• Skin Tone: Complements various skin tones.

12. Black And Gray Lion Tattoo

This timeless tattoo of a black and gray lion is a powerful symbol of inner strength and drive, representing courage, strength, and endurance. It captures the spirit of power by showcasing the majestic presence of a lion in an alluring black and gray color scheme.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo looks realistic and very detailed with the application of a black and gray ink combination.
• Where: This tattoo, which represents strength and courage, is placed on the forearm and acts as a striking statement artwork.
• Size: Medium-sized, covering the surface area of the forearm.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo looks best on complexions ranging from honey to chestnut.

13. Lion Line Tattoo

This outlined lion tattoo is a classic representation of inner strength and resolve, representing power, strength, and tenacity.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo looks best in black ink, which helps to outline the design.
• Where: This tattoo, which represents bravery and strength, is placed on the wrist as a delicate yet important ornament.
• Size: Small to medium-sized covering the full surface area of the wrist.
• Skin Tone: Complements various skin tones, ranging from beige to almond.

14. Half Lion Half Cross Tattoo

This half-lion, half-cross tattoo is a powerful representation of inner strength and spiritual belief, signifying bravery, faith, and resilience. This eye-catching arm tattoo is a unique design that combines a cross and a lion, split in the middle.

• Preferable Ink Color: Light brown and black ink provides the design depth.
• Where: This tattoo, which is prominently placed on the arm, is a strong representation of faith and strength, making a bold statement.
• Size: This tattoo covers an area of 10 cm².
• Skin Tone: The black hue of this tattoo makes it suitable for all skin tones.

15. Lion And Butterfly Tattoo

This tattoo of a lion and a monarch butterfly symbolizes strength, resiliency, and the beauty of transformation. Bright watercolors are used to create this alluring wrist tattoo, which mixes the power of a lion with the delicate monarch butterfly.

• Preferable Ink Color: Vibrant watercolors like light brown, blue, and violet can add depth and vibrancy to the design.
• Where: This tattoo fits best on your wrist.
• Size: This tattoo covers an area of 6 cm².
• Skin Tone: The dark colors used in this tattoo look great on ivory to chestnut skin tones.

16. Lion And Lamb Tattoo

This tattoo with a lion head, lamb head, and leaves is a striking representation of harmony and balance, signifying bravery, strength, and compassion.

• Preferable Ink Color: Rich brown and black ink creates a natural and visually appealing color palette.
• Where: This tattoo, when placed on the hand, is a visually arresting and symbolic piece of art that symbolizes the harmony of strength and kindness.
• Size: This tattoo covers an area of 5 cm².
• Skin Tone: This tattoo is best suited for all skin tones.

17. Old School Lion Tattoo

This old-school lion tattoo represents bravery, strength, and resiliency. It is a classic way to show inner power and resolve.

• Preferable Ink Color: The strong black outline lines provide contrast and definition to this tattoo design.
• Where: It will look great on the upper thigh.
• Size: This tattoo covers an area of 7 cm².
• Skin Tone: This tattoo design looks best on skin tones ranging from beige to almond.

18. Half Lion Half Gorilla Tattoo

This tattoo of a half lion, half gorilla represents the contrast between strength and fury and is a potent representation of inner strength and essential instinct.

• Preferable Ink Color: The lion and gorilla parts are expertly rendered in ash brown and black ink, adding depth and contrast to the overall design.
• Where: This tattoo, which is prominently placed on the upper back, is a powerful symbol of resilience and power that makes a strong statement.
• Size: This tattoo covers a surface area of 10 cm².
• Skin Tone: This tattoo is best suited for all skin tones.

19. Female Lion And Sunflower Tattoo

This tattoo of a female lion, sunflower, and leaves is a striking representation of inner beauty and life. It symbolizes strength, dedication, and the beauty of nature.

• Preferable Ink Color: Vibrant yellow ink makes the sunflowers pop, while warm brown ink depicts the female lion. The leaves are rendered in a variety of green ink tones, which results in a visually pleasing color scheme.
• Where: This tattoo, which represents strength, beauty, and energy, is placed on the ankle and functions as a subtle yet meaningful ornament.
• Size: This tattoo covers a surface area of 5 cm².
• Skin Tone: This fine line tattoo is appropriate for all skin tones.

20. Half Face Lion Tattoo

This half-face lion tattoo represents the natural spirit, strength, and resilience of the lion.

• Preferable Ink Color: The lion’s half-face is given depth and dimension by the precise blending of ash brown and black ink, which intensifies and contrasts the pattern.
• Where: With its vibrant graphics and emphasis on the hand, this tattoo makes a statement and represents courage and strength.
• Size: This tattoo covers a surface area of 5 cm².
• Skin Tone: The black and light brown palette of this tattoo makes it suitable for all skin tones.

21. Lion And Rose Tattoo

This tattoo of a lion and rose represents power, beauty, and the harmony between love and power. It is a classic way to convey both inner strength and vulnerability.

• Preferable Ink Color: The rose is drawn in a traditional rose hue, lending the design a touch of romance and elegance, while the lion is created in light brown ink to suggest its royal presence.
• Where: This tattoo, which represents courage, strength, and love, is placed on the wrist and acts as a visually arresting and symbolic decoration.
• Size: This tattoo covers a surface area of 5 cm².
• Skin Tone: This design looks best on wheatish and fair skin tones.

22. Lion King Tattoo

This tattoo of the Lion King, which stands for dignity, strength, and leadership, is a classic tribute to the lasting impact of one of the most beloved figures in pop culture.

• Preferable Ink Color: The lion’s royal character is captured by using light brown ink, and its significance is highlighted by using a similar tone for the crown.
• Where: This tattoo, which represents strength and leadership, is prominently placed on the calf, drawing attention to itself.
• Size: This tattoo covers an area of 7 cm².
• Skin Tone: The black ink in this design creates a contrast with skin tones ranging from warm ivory to beige.

23. Lion And Eagle Tattoo

This eye-catching hand tattoo showcases a gorgeous lion and eagle combination, created in powerful black ink and fine line style. This eagle and lion tattoo makes for a powerful representation of inner strength and resilience, representing power, bravery, and independence.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo looks best in a black bold color and it adds depth and definition to the design.
• Where: This design fits in the forearm precisely, symbolizing courage, strength, and freedom.
• Size: This tattoo covers the area from your elbow to your wrist.
• Skin Tone: Ideal for all skin tones.

24. Lion Skull Tattoo

This tattoo of a lion and skull represents the duality of existence and the certainty of death. It is a potent statement of acceptance and inner strength.

• Preferable Ink Color: The design incorporates depth and contrast through the skillful blending of ash brown and black ink, with the lion signifying power and the skull indicating death.
• Where: This tattoo, which is placed on the ankle, is an eye-catching design that represents the harmony of strength and vulnerability as well as life and death.
• Size: This tattoo covers an area of 7 cm².
• Skin Tone: The light shading and outline make this design suitable for light skin tones.

25. Lion Neck Tattoo

This sophisticated neck tattoo features a detailed lion design created with bold black ink, showcasing intricate lines and patterns. Symbolizing power and majesty, this fine line lion neck tattoo is a timeless expression of inner strength and resilience.

• Preferable Ink Color: To emphasize the tonal shifts in this design, monotone hues, and gentle gray shading work well.
• Where: The size of this tattoo is flexible and it looks great on the neck.
• Size: This small design fits on an area of 5 cm².
• Skin Tone: This tattoo design is suitable for all skin tones.

26. Lion Head Tattoo

This lion head tattoo in deep blue and purple hues is an eye-catcher. The eyes, nose, and mouth of the lion are distinctly bordered in black and filled in with cool-toned hues in a watercolor effect.

• Preferable Ink Color: This beautiful design looks best in dark cool-toned colors – like blue and violet – that highlight the deep significance of this tattoo.
• Where: This is best suited for the center of your upper back.
• Size: This design fits an area of 10 cm². It is best to keep it neither too small nor too large to flaunt the colors the right way.
• Skin Tone: The dark colors used in this tattoo look great on ivory to chestnut skin tones.

27. Lion Back Tattoo

This stunning tattoo of a lion wearing a crown is a mark of grandeur. The realistic rendering and intense shading make this tattoo an alluring piece of art.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo is done with black outlines and shading. The eyes and gems on the crown are done in an icy blue color to add charm to the tattoo.
• Where: The symmetric construction of this tattoo makes it best suited for the upper back.
• Size: This crowned lion tattoo covers an area of 15 cm² from the base of your neck until the center of your back.
• Skin Tone: The exclusively black palette of this tattoo makes it ideal for porcelain and ivory skin tones.

Quick Tip

Christina Ricci is an American actress who has a lion tattoo on her back, which symbolizes her childhood.

28. Lion Arm Tattoo

This beautiful line design of a lion with adequate highlight work is an attractive piece of work. The crown on the lion’s head along with the roses make it even more appealing.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo has a black ink border along with pink shading to give it a highlighted effect.
• Where: This design looks best on your outer arm.
• Size: This tattoo covers an area of 10 cm² from your bicep to the center of your outer arm.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo is best suited for skin tones ranging from porcelain to ivory.

29. 3D Leo Lion Arm Tattoo

Put a seasoned tattoo artist to the test with this hyper-realistic tattoo design of a fierce lion in action. The details on the canines and eyes make it look almost three-dimensional. The stopwatch below the lion symbolizes the value of time.

• Preferable Ink Color: This realistic tattoo looks best when done with shades of black and dark brown. The details are filled in with a coffee brown shade to give it a sepia-tinted look.
• Where: This tattoo fits on the outer calf perfectly, making it easy to flaunt when you wear shorts.
• Size: Get this tattoo done from your ankle to your knee.
• Skin Tone: The elaborate shade work makes it ideal for skin complexions ranging from ivory to almond tones.

30. Modern Lion Tattoo

This design is the perfect mixture of traditional and modern art. The layout features a shaded lion in the outline of a triangle. The line accents in the background.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo uses black borders with gray filling. The highlights are done in white ink to give it a three-dimensional look.
• Where: The geometric design makes it perfect for your forearm.
• Size: The tattoo covers an area of 10 cm² to keep the detailing of the tattoo intact.
• Skin Tone: The dark, contrasting design makes it best suited for beige skin complexion.

31. Simple Lion Tattoo

If you like your tattoos simple and fun, this line tattoo is the perfect choice for you. These sketchy lines of a half lion face with a determined gaze will look great on your arm.

• Preferable Ink Color: This design is in monochrome black with a super fine needle.
• Where: This half-lion face layout will look the best on your forearm where it is visible to all.
• Size: The size of this tattoo can be altered according to your preference, but it looks best when done on an area of 7 cm².
• Skin Tone: It suits skin complexions ranging from ivory to almond.

32. Inner Forearm Lion Tattoo

This bold shaded design of a lion head with an antique design in the background is the ideal tattoo for your forearm.

• Preferable Ink Color: This design is done with dark shades of black and extensive highlights.
• Where: Get this tattoo done on your forearm to flaunt it to your heart’s content.
• Size: This lion tattoo for men stretches from your elbow until your wrist and encircles the arm completely.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo will create a stunning contrast on skin tones ranging from beige to almond.

33. Iron Lion Tattoo Sleeve

If you are on the hunt for a meaningful lion tattoo that covers your arm in a feminine way, this elegant lioness and cub tattoo with a dreamcatcher in the background is perfect for you.

• Preferable Ink Color: The tattoo is based entirely on black ink with detailed shade and highlights with a dull gray.
• Where: This tattoo extends from your biceps until your forearm.
• Size: This sleeve tattoo covers the entire arm. The design on the outer arm is more extensive than the forearm.
•  Skin Tone: This shaded design is ideal for complexions ranging from warm ivory to chestnut skin tones.

34. Tribal Lion Tattoo

This unique design of a lion in tribal headgear represents the chief of a tribe. Making the king of the jungle wear a tribal chief’s headgear is symbolic of its royal position. The rose at the base of the tattoo adds to its glamor.

• Preferable Ink Color: This design makes extensive use of black ink. The highlights are done using a subtle peach shade.
• Where: This tattoo looks best on your forearm.
• Size: This design stretches from the base of your elbow to your wrist.
• Skin Tone: Light skin tones, ranging from porcelain to beige, are great for sporting this tattoo.

35. Lion Wrist Tattoo

If you want to keep your tattoo small, this is the perfect design for you. The elegant shading and use of curved strokes make this tattoo even more appealing.

• Preferable Ink Color: This wrist tattoo is done in plain black ink with different sizes of needles to make it look even more authentic.
• Where: This small design is ideal for your wrist. It makes the tattoo easily visible and ready to flaunt.
• Size: The uniqueness of the tattoo lies in the small area it covers. It is best done on an area of 6 cm².
• Skin Tone: This design is ideal for complexions ranging from beige to honey.

36. Lion Pride Tattoo

This marvelous piece of art will turn your skin into a live canvas. This beautiful rendering of a lion along with its pride is just the treat you want to give to your skin. A pride of lions symbolizes the love and care of a family.

• Preferable Ink Color: The monotone design with distinct shading makes it the perfect tattoo to be etched in pitch-black ink.
• Where: This tattoo design requires a large area for extensive shading and detailing. The upper back is best for this tattoo.
• Size: This design requires an area of no less than 20 cm².
• Skin Tone: This design is best suited for skin tones ranging from ivory to honey.

37. Chinese Lion Tattoo

The Chinese lion is depicted in its own unique way. The curled-up mane and stout broad features set it apart from the regular depictions of the lion. The Chinese considered lion tattoos as a symbol of good luck and protection. The beautiful shading and intricate detailing make this tattoo a head-turner.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo has a monotone base with a slight pink tinge to highlight its movement.
• Where: The distinct shape of the lion and background elements like the lotus, clouds, and waves make your bicep the perfect place to flaunt this tattoo.
• Size: This tattoo extends from your bicep until your elbow.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo looks best on skin tones ranging from porcelain to beige.

38. Lion Crown Tattoo

This monochrome tattoo of a lion with a crown and a rose is for anyone looking for that royal touch in their tattoo.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo looks best with proper shade work and distinct outlines done in black.
• Where: The elongated design of this tattoo makes it best suited for your bicep.
• Size: This tattoo should ideally extend from your shoulder to the elbow.
• Skin Tone: This black and white traditional tattoo design is well suited for all skin tones from porcelain to espresso.

39. Lioness Tattoo

This abstract-lined feline tattoo along with beautiful mandala designs surrounding it has a unique feminine appeal.

• Preferable Ink Color: This design is best suited to be done in monochrome shades and soft gray shading to highlight the tonal changes.
• Where: The shape and angular element of the design make it best suited for the bicep or upper arm.
• Size: The full length of the tattoo should stretch from your bicep until your elbow.
• Skin Tone: The thin outline and light shading make this design suitable for light skin complexions like ivory, sand, porcelain, and beige.

40. Fierce Lion Tattoo

A roaring lion is a symbol of divine strength. This design is one-of-a-kind, and the unique design and color choice makes it an absolute head-turner. It is the perfect mixture of modern art and Western tattooing style. The design features a roaring lion colored in rich cyan and orange hues. The geometric ripples in the background and the owl under the lion take this piece of body art to a whole new level.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo is best done with black outlines and highlighted with orange and cyan.
• Where: The vertical dimension of this design requires an elongated body part. Hence, the side of your leg is the best option.
• Size: This design stretches from your thigh until your ankle, covering the entire length of your leg.
• Skin Tone: The beautiful color palette of this tattoo is best suited for wheatish to dusky skin tones.

41. Shoulder Lion Tattoo

This tattoo of Scar from The Lion King is the perfect tattoo for anyone who is obsessed with all things Disney. The visible construction lines of this tattoo add a distinctly unique charm to it.

• Preferable Ink Color: The light shading and delicate linework are best done in black and white.
• Where: This Scar tattoo looks best on the upper shoulder.
• Size: The size of this design is flexible. However, narrowing it down or stretching it out too much will disrupt the proportion of the sketch. It looks best etched on an area of 5 cm2.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo design with its light shade work suits pale to wheatish skin tones.

42. Lion Cub Tattoo

This realistic tattoo of a lion cub is beyond adorable. Its cute little eyes, soft fur, and round ears make it a must-have for all animal lovers.

• Preferable Ink Color: This design has a dark shade of black and light pink for highlights.
• Where: You can flaunt this design on your outer thigh.
• Size: The span of the tattoo is less than 10 cm2.
• Skin Tone: The pink tinge used in this tattoo makes it ideal for ivory and porcelain skin tones.

43. Small Lion Tattoo

This portrait of a lion is a marvelous piece of art. The use of efficient shading using only monochrome shades adds to the beauty of this design.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo has a base of simple black ink along with shades of gray. The eyes have a tinge of faded orange to give them a realistic look.
• Where: This small tattoo can easily fit on a number of places like your wrist, arm, and calf. However, it looks best on the forearm.
• Size: It easily fits in an area of 5 cm2.
• Skin Tone: The uniqueness of the tattoo lies in its ability to suit a wide range of skin tones, ranging from vanilla to mocha.

44. Geometric Lion Tattoo

This tattoo is an abstract lion face created out of triangles. Its bold outline makes it the perfect tattoo to display on your skin.

• Preferable Ink Color: The thick lines of this tattoo are best when done with jet black ink.
• Where: Though this simple, ingenious design will look good on most places on your body, getting it inked on your forearm is the best way to flaunt it.
• Size: This rudimentary design fits on a narrow area of 10 cm².
• Skin Tone: The distinct black outline makes it possible to get this design tattooed on every skin tone, ranging from very light to very dark.

45. Pencil Sketch Lion Tattoo

This tiny tattoo of a lion has just a few curved lines. It is a great example of artistic skill. If you like keeping your tattoos simple, this is the ideal design for you.

• Preferable Ink Color: Getting this tattoo done in jet black would be the ideal option to create a sharp contrast with your skin tone.
• Where: The small size makes of this tattoo makes it best suited for your wrist. You can also flaunt it on the back of your neck.
• Size: This tiny piece fits on an area of 5 cm².
• Skin Tone: This simple line tattoo is appropriate for all skin tones, ranging from porcelain to espresso.

46. Lion Tattoo On Side Rib

This elegant design of a lioness head surrounded with roses and leaves portrays feminine power along with delicate beauty.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo looks best when done in monotone black and white shades.
• Where: The expanded design is well-suited for adorning the side of your ribs.
• Size: Since this tattoo requires lots of detailing, get it done on a large area like your abdomen.
• Skin Tone: This monotone design looks good on skin tones ranging from beige to almond.

47. Colorful Lion Tattoo

If you want splashes of color to make your tattoo look even more interesting, this is the perfect piece of art for you. The striking color variation in the background of the lion head makes it a unique piece of abstract art.

• Preferable Ink Color: The beauty of this tattoo lies in playing with bright colors and letting them overlap each other to form different shades.
• Where: This tattoo looks best on your outer arm.
• Size: This design covers the area from your bicep till your elbow.
• Skin Tone: The rich color palette of this tattoo makes it ideal for skin tones ranging from beige to almond.

48. Japanese Lion Tattoo

The aggressive Japanese lion stands for heroism, principles, and fairness. These morals were held in high regard by the Samurais. This is the perfect example of outstanding Japanese tattoo art.

• Preferable Ink Color: As per the Japanese tattoo tradition, this tattoo is done with monotone black and gray hues with distinct shading and highlighting work.
• Where: It is ideal for your bicep.
• Size: This expressive design covers the elongated area of your bicep and the width of the tattoo wraps around your arm.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo looks best on complexions ranging from honey to chestnut.

49. Princess Lioness Tattoo

This girly piece of art will help you let out the quirky, feminine princess in you. This beautiful design of a blue-eyed lioness with a diamond tiara looks absolutely wild and fabulous.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo is done in a plain black shade with white highlights on the tiara. The eyes have been colored in with icy blue to make them look majestic.
• Where: The elongated shape of the tattoo fits between your outer arm until your mid-forearm.
• Size: the tattoo covers an area of 10 cm x 8 cm, making it perfect for your arm.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo looks best on people with a slightly pink undertone.

50. Mandala Lion Tattoo

This unique mandala tattoo with the face of a lion will look perfect on your bicep. The dotted design with a magenta gem on the forehead of the lion gives it a majestic look.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo has a black base with magenta used to fill in the oval gemstone on the forehead of the lion.
• Where: The elongated oval shape of the tattoo makes it best-suited for your outer arm.
• Size: This beautiful design stretches from your bicep until the base of your elbow, covering your entire outer arm.
• Skin Tone: This beautiful piece looks great on skin tones ranging from sand to chestnut.

51. Rasta Lion Tattoo

The Rastafarian flag culture features a lion with matted hair that represents Haile Selassie I, who was known as the Lion of Judah. It symbolizes righteousness, acceptance, brotherhood, and nobility.

• Preferable Ink Color: The tattoo is done with a black border and a touch of pink to highlight the tattoo.
• Where: This Lion of Judah tattoo will look great on your upper thigh.
• Size: This majestic tattoo covers an area of 10 cm².
• Skin Tone: This design looks best on skin tones ranging from beige to almond.

52. Tribal Lion Tattoo Designs

If you are a fan of tribal art, this tattoo is sure to impress you. This intricate design features the side profile of a lion. The tattoo is filled in with mandala art, which makes it look even more attractive.

• Preferable Ink Color: Get this incredibly detailed tattoo done in shades of black and gray.
• Where: This tattoo fits best on your inner arm.
• Size: The tattoo spreads horizontally from your bicep to your elbow.
• Skin Tone: The black palette of this tattoo makes it ideal for all skin tones.

53. Realistic Roaring Lion Tattoo

Get ready to flaunt this fierce tattoo of a roaring lion on your forearm. A roaring lion signifies the urge to be heard.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo uses monochrome black ink throughout the design.
• Where: This delicate design fits the forearm perfectly.
• Size: It covers the area from your mid-forearm till your wrist.
• Skin Tone: The monotone design of this tattoo makes it ideal for skin tones ranging from ivory to beige.

54. Lion Thigh Tattoo

This audacious design with intense shading that shows the face and mane of a lion gives out a strong and valiant message.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo is done with black ink and shaded highlights to give it a three-dimensional look.
• Where: Place this tattoo on your outer thigh to create a bold look.
• Size: The tattoo covers an area of 12 cm² to fit perfectly on your thigh.
• Skin Tone: This tattoo looks best on darker skin tones.

55. Cool Lion Chest Tattoo

This delicate design of a roaring lion spread across the chest is will help you feel powerful. This tattoo of a lion is adorned with symmetrical antique designs in the background.

• Preferable Ink Color: The tattoo makes use of only black ink.
• Where: This piece of art is designed to be etched on the upper chest area, right under your shoulder bone.
• Size: The tattoo spreads out from the base of your chest until your shoulders.
• Skin Tone: This design is best suited for skin complexions ranging from porcelain to beige.

56. Lion Hand Tattoo

If you are a fan of Gothic art, this antique tattoo design of a lion head door handle is sure to win your heart. The dark palette of the tattoo along with the inverted triangle enhances the vintage beauty of the art.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo is mainly done with black ink and white highlights.
• Where: The tattoo fits your forearm perfectly.
• Size: The triangle of the tattoo fits an area of 5 cm².
• Skin Tone: The black ink creates a gorgeous contrast with skin tones ranging from warm ivory to beige.

Quick Tip

A lion hand tattoo can symbolize a challenging time in your life and that you had much to overcome but have done so with a lot of courage.

57. Floral Lion Tattoo

Flowers help bring out the feminine goddess in you. Pairing them with a lion adds to the royalty of the design. This beautiful line tattoo of a lion surrounded by cherry blossoms and a blooming chrysanthemum at the bottom screams opulence.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo looks best with a black outline and pink shading on the flowers.
• Where: This design looks best on your forearm, stretching from the elbow to the wrist.
• Size: The elongated design covers an area of 20 cm x 10 cm.
• Skin Tone: This design looks best on skin tones ranging from porcelain to warm beige.

58. Lion Tattoo For Women

The best way to add a feminine vibe to a tattoo is with floral elements. This sketch of a realistic lion above a blooming rose speaks of strength and beauty.

• Preferable Ink Color: This tattoo has a black base paired with pink shading.
• Where: This design fits on your forearm perfectly to create a cool feminine look.
• Size: The tattoo covers the entire forearm, from the elbow to the wrist.
• Skin Tone: This design looks best on wheatish complexions.

59. Lion Eyes Tattoo

The sharp piercing eyes, bold demeanor, and striking gaze send chillls down the spine.

• Preferable Ink Color: A dark black tattoo with a little brown or blue in the eye can highlight the eyes.
• Where: They are best etched on the forearm.
• Size: With two big eyes, the design will cover the area from the waist to mid-forearm.
• Skin Tone: This design looks best on warm to wheatish complexions.

60. Female Lion Tattoo

The lioness tattoo is for the strong female who considers herself the queen of the realm. The floral elements add a feminine touch, while the crown exudes royalty.

• Preferable Ink Color: Light ashy shade with pinkish skin tint.
• Where: The design fills the forearm. It will also look great on the back.
• Size: The design can extend from the elbow to the floral design ending at the wrist.
• Skin Tone: This design looks best on wheatish and fair complexions.

Getting a tattoo can be nerve-wracking. Therefore, it’s best to follow all safety precautions before and after getting it to make sure it heals quickly. Check out this article to find out how to prep your skin before getting a tattoo and some post-care maintenance tips.

Azikiwe Chandler, a travel blogger and educator, shares his thoughts and ideas behind getting a lion tattoo. He got a winged lion tattooed on his biceps that depicted his love for lions and also the urge to fly. He added, “Lions are strong and powerful, yet agile, graceful and inconspicuous when necessary. As the “kings of the jungle”, they also represent valor, leadership and nobility. I love how efficient they are. They waste no energy (i).”

Infographic: Top 5 Awesome Lion Tattoo Designs You May Like

A lion tattoo signifies bravery, knowledge, power, strength, stability, and family. It also represents love and faith and symbolizes protection and good luck. If you are looking for tattoos with such meanings, the lion is perfect for you. Check out the infographic below for the top 5 stunning lion tattoo designs to get inspiration for your next ink session.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What do a lion and a rose tattoo mean?

While the lion symbolizes royalty, strength, bravery, and courage, a rose symbolizes passion, beauty, and femininity. A lion and rose tattoo represents a balance of gentleness, fierceness, and power.

What does a lion and tiger tattoo mean?

While a lion is considered the king of the jungle. Tigers are larger, faster, and more ferocious than lions and hunt independently. Lions have the lionesses hunt and step in only when their pride is overpowered – just like a King’s role in battle. A lion symbolizes strength and royalty, but the tiger symbolizes true raw power. Therefore, a lion and a tiger tattoo may represent royalty and true, independent power.

Are lion tattoos expensive?

Lion tattoos are generally more expensive compared to other tattoos due to the intricate details of their fur, eyes, and teeth and the different colors used to create the tattoo.

Are there any precautions I should take before getting a lion tattoo, such as checking for allergies or medical conditions?

It is possible that tattoo ink might cause allergic reactions, which can occur even years after getting a tattoo. You could also have a skin rash or a contract skin infection after getting a tattoo. Ensure that you get tattoos done only from a reputed and experienced tattoo studio and artist and ensure that your tattoo artist uses sterilized and fresh tattoo equipment only.

How do I choose the right tattoo artist for my lion tattoo?

Choose certified tattoo artists, check out their portfolios, and the safety and hygiene practices followed by the tattoo studio. Visit the studio and look up the reviews online before getting your tattoo.

How do I prepare for getting a lion tattoo?

Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and dry and flaky skin during the session. Avoid blood thinning medications or foods to limit bleeding during the session and avoid alcohol consumption 24 hours before the tattoo session.

How do I properly care for my lion tattoo after getting it?

Keep the tattooed area clean with mild antibacterial soap and water, apply moisturizer, avoid sun exposure and swimming, and wear loose clothes to keep it from sticking to your tattoo.

Can I get a lion tattoo as a temporary tattoo or a henna design?

Yes, you can opt for a temporary lion tattoo using henna. Ensure that your design is clear and the artist is experienced to design a detailed lion tattoo.

Check out this video for new lion tattoo designs and ideas! It contains some of the coolest and most unique tattoo designs that you don’t want to miss.

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Terisa GreenTattoo Researcher

Terisa Green, PhD, is a tattoo researcher with over 20 years of experience and the author of The Tattoo Encyclopedia: A Guide to Choosing Your Tattoo and Ink: The Not-Just-Skin-Deep Guide to Getting A Tattoo. She undertook a tattoo apprenticeship at Sunset Strip Tattoo in Hollywood and learned about all the aspects of tattoos - from mixing pigments to customer care.

Read full bio of Terisa Green

Nisha BaghadiaContributor

 

Nisha is a contributor to StyleCraze and has 3 years of experience in content writing for different genres. She is a makeup aficionado and combines her love for makeup and writing to provide her readers with the latest information in the beauty world.

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Asmita DeAssociate Editor

Asmita De is an associate editor with over three years of experience. She graduated in English Literature from the University of Calcutta. She has collaborated with several digital companies and reputed publishing houses as an editor.

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Shreya MukherjeeBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Shreya is a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience. After graduating from Christ University, Bengaluru, she started as a writer for a non-profit organization, Bhumi, as an intern. She then wrote for a progressive content website.

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