60 Snake And Rose Tattoo Ideas With Meaning

Bring forth the ying-yang in you with these stunning and symbolic body art designs.

Reviewed by Brik Rangel, Tattoo Artist Brik Rangel Brik RangelTattoo Artist facebook_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by Joyce Joyson, MA (Mass Communication & Journalism) Joyce Joyson MA (Mass Communication & Journalism) linkedin_icon
Edited by Madhumati Chowdhury, MA (English Literature) Madhumati Chowdhury MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Fact-checked by Aparna Harry, MA (English Literature) Aparna Harry MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
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Snake and rose tattoo on arm

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There is something about the combined idea of snake and rose tattoos that just captivates people. Much like the complex nature of humans, they encapsulate it with rich symbolism and meanings. Roses are the most beautiful flowers in any garden, and their varied colors express different emotions like love, innocence, friendship, and passion. Snakes, on the other hand, are associated with danger and transformation and carry a sense of foreboding around them. Together, their symbolism delves into the realms of mythology, cultural significance, and personal interpretation.

Snake and rose motifs make for an excellent combination, not just because of how aesthetically pleasing they are. They also carry meanings that intertwine perfectly together. Their symbolism is full of contrasts: strength and fragility, danger and beauty, poison and love.

No wonder they make for some powerful, eye-catching body art designs that do not seem to stop trending on Instagram! In this article, we have put together the coolest snake and rose combination tattoo designs to inspire your next ink session. Take a look!

Snake And Rose Tattoo Meanings

The combination of snake and rose symbols in tattoos seamlessly blends the serpentine allure with the innocent beauty of the rose. However, they have more to them than their captivating designs. They are rich in symbolism and may have the following meanings:

  • Passion

Roses are a classic symbol of love, while snakes can represent passion and strong desire. Together, the tattoo may express the complexity and intensity of romantic relationships. It may also convey that love can withstand it all and remain eternal.

  • Balance

The snake symbolizes duality, representing both the positive and negative aspects of existence, such as life and death, creation and destruction, good and evil, joy and sorrow, etc. When combined with the beauty of the rose and its thorns, it can signify the balance between the duality, love and pain. It may also represent the idea that one must navigate through both positive and negative experiences to achieve true happiness.

  • Transformation

Snakes are known for shedding their skin, which symbolizes renewal and transformation. The rose is associated with growth and blooming and can complement this theme, suggesting personal metamorphosis and the process of overcoming challenges.

  • Life And Death

Snakes also indicate the cycle of life and death due to their venomous nature and shedding process. Roses, on the other hand, are stunning but come with thorns. Together with the snake, they signify the inevitable pain of loss that is a part of the beautiful human life.

  • Spirituality

Snakes in their kundali (serpent) form are sometimes linked to spiritual awakening and enlightenment, because higher beings have mostly chosen the serpent formation to enter earth. Roses, on the other hand, are a symbol of divine and sacred love. A tattoo with both these elements may indicate a spiritual journey or a connection to higher realms.

  • Mystery

Snakes are mysterious creatures and can add an element of intrigue to the tattoo. The addition of roses with their many layers of petals also symbolize the layers that make every person, and together they add mystique to the design, inviting curiosity and contemplation.

  • Healing

In certain folklore, the venom of the snakes is believed to possess healing powers, while roses are associated with protection. A tattoo with both these elements may convey a desire for healing from the hardships in life due to continued protection. It may also act as a talisman offering safeguarding energies.

  • Guardianship

Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist adherents view snakes as the guardians of temples and hidden knowledge. Paired with a rose, the tattoo might symbolize a life journey guarded by ancient wisdom, emphasizing the sacred balance between nature, existence and divinity.

  • Devotion

In Hindu mythology, the serpent Shesha serves as the bed of Lord Vishnu, embodying devotion and sacrifice. On the other hand, apart from the rose adding beauty, it also stands for pure devotion. Hence, this tattoo may convey a sense of devotion to someone you respect or to higher beliefs with beauty and grace.

A snake and rose tattoo may encompass a myriad of meanings, depending on how you view them personally. When considering such a tattoo, it is essential to choose a design that resonates with you. Scroll down for some snake and rose tattoo designs from which you can draw some inspiration.

60 Snake And Rose Tattoo Designs With Meanings

Snake and rose tattoos are popular choices, often laden with various symbolic interpretations. Here are 60 such designs, categorized accordingly with their possible meanings:

Snake Wrapped Around Rose Tattoos

A snake wrapped around a rose carries various meanings like love, desire, transformation, and renewal. You can get this tattooed in different styles and sizes, allowing for personalization and creativity in the design. Below are some popular designs you can draw inspiration from:

1. Chest Piece Snake And Rose Tattoo

This captivating and intricate tattoo symbolizes personal growth and renewal. It features a snake in its sinuous form wrapping itself around the steady yet slender stem of the rose with its leaves and thorns. This suggests a journey of being flexible to changes yet being steady in the face of challenges, embracing the new with grace. The tattoo’s placement on the chest adds an intimate and significant touch, and being in the middle further enhances the idea of finding a balance between contrasting views.

2. Thorned Rose And Menacing Snake Tattoo

Every bit of this rose and snake tattoo is art. Its intricate details showcase an expressive snake gracefully winding its way around a thorned rose, creating a powerful presence. The thorns on the rose serve as a reminder of the inherent challenges and struggles in life, while the snake with its fangs bared takes on a protective role. It adds an element of fierce guardianship, suggesting a willingness to defend what is cherished and valuable, from oncoming challenges.

3. Heavy Graphic Snake And Rose Tattoo

If you want a tattoo that not only captivates the eye but also tells a unique and meaningful story, this is the one for you. It features a thorned red rose and a scaled snake, which are brought to life through vibrant shades of ink and fine shading. The choice of red for the rose symbolizes love, desire, and passion, while the snake introduces elements of intensity and protection. Together, they form a harmonious composition enhancing each other’s symbolism, leaving a lasting impression.

4. Minimalist Red Rose And Snake Tattoo

This tattoo serves as a powerful reminder that beauty and danger often coexist and the lines separating the two are quite thin. The fine lines of the rose create a sense of softness and fragility, and the deep red hue adds a pop of color to the tattoo. Contrastingly, the sinuous snake with its sleek curves and subtle detailing, slithers through the composition, introducing an element of danger, mystery, and intrigue.

5. Celestial Snake And Rose Tattoo

The interplay of pastel colors in a metallic finish shading makes this fusion snake and rose tattoo design spacey and simply breathtaking! The shaded purple rose with its green stem and blue leaves offers a nice three-dimensional effect to the tattoo design, while the galaxy-themed snake with stars incorporated onto its skin lends a celestial touch. It is ideal for those of a vibrant spirit who want a purple rose, which symbolizes enchantment and gratitude, with a touch of modernity with creativity.

6. Fangs In Bloom Snake And Rose Tattoo

For a vibrant tattoo that says do not mess with me, this one does an awesome job conveying that message with its scary yet appealing blue-black-shaded snake and crimson-red rose. The use of pink ink shading does a great job of highlighting the details of both these elements of the tattoo and providing depth. The design also features shaded green leaves with red midribs that add to the overall appeal of this stunning body art.

7. Illustrative Snake And Rose Tattoo

Look at how elegantly the snake’s deeply shaded body bends and twists around the rose in this elegant and realistic piece! The pink rose is prominent and beautiful, as is the shading of its green leaves, and it signifies a strong bond and love between friends and family. The snake has its fangs on display to symbolize protection, and together with the rose, it emphasizes the idea that relationships should be guarded and cherished. Truly meaningful, right? Also, hats off to the artist for the clean lines and impeccable shading.

8. Neo-Traditional Snake And Rose Tattoo

This tattoo does a really good job integrating the red rose with the snake. The rose here is a classic symbol of love, while the snake with the hint of an empty space on its head adds an element of intensity to the tattoo’s overall design. Although simple in design, this modernized piece with saturated color and bold lines is shaded intricately. Another thing that is worth mentioning is the snake’s red eyes, which offer a hypnotic feel, while the space on the hood signifies moving forth despite a loss.

9. Scarlet Slither Snake And Roses Tattoo

The snake’s detailing in this design is achieved via the use of thin black lines adjacent to the combined shading of gray of and pink highlights. Coupled with the gorgeous red roses, this tattoo is both bold and beautiful. The combination symbolizes the delicate balance of opposing forces in life. It represents the idea that when you experience happiness, a negative experience is not far, but then you can overcome it for more happiness is just around the corner.

10. Watercolor Effect Snake And Rose Entwined Tattoo

Add your own flair to the classic snake and rose tattoo by going for this modern design! The detail and shading in the design offer such a cool watercolor effect. Just look at the multi-tonal shaded rose and the glimmer of light reflecting off the snake’s body. The realistic design of the snake with the fantastical art style of the rose show how balancing your imagination with living your reality can make for a fun and colorful existence.

11. Dark And Bold Snake And Rose Tattoo

Women and men alike will keep noticing the unique placement of this snake and rose tattoo! It features a thorned rose with a snake offering a protective stance over it. Together, the two elements serve as a constant reminder that life is adorned with both beauty and difficulties, and strength and resilience are essential elements to live it. If you are really into the look of a neck tattoo and want something to show off, this side-neck piece is for you.

Traditional Snake And Rose Tattoos

In traditional tattoo art, snake and rose ink designs use a bold and vibrant color palette, with strong outlines and a clear, defined style. They have a classic and timeless appeal to them and create a powerful and visually striking image. Check out some trendy traditional snake and rose tattoo designs below:

12. Garden Of Scales Snake And Roses Tattoo

The vivid colors and shading in this traditional tattoo design – from the body of the snake and its eyes to the flowers and leaves – are exemplary. What sets it apart is not just its aesthetic and bold use of colors, but also the symbolism embedded within its elements. The untamed nature of the snake with a sly sice-eye coiled gracefully around the bright and fragile flowers and leaves indicates a harmonious and elegant balance between chaos and beauty.

13. Rose Escapee Snake And Rose Tattoo

In the Hindu mythology, snakes represent freedom as they cannot be tamed. The snake emerging from the rose in this traditional tattoo symbolizes just that. It can be interpreted as the freedom to grow and transform by overcoming challenges life throws your way. The piece is perfect if you are looking for a balanced tattoo design with colors that complement each other, and encapsulates perseverance. However, if you wish to emphasize either the snake or the rose more, you can always keep one of them colored and the other black.

14. Black And Orange Snake And Rose Tattoo

If you are not a fan of red roses, why not try a tattoo with an orange rose like this one? It features a simple black snake slinking around a bright orange rose along with a moon and yellow stars in the background. The darkness of the night represented by the snake against the vibrancy of the rose represents the constant battle between light and dark. Furthermore, both of them have white highlights strategically placed to show how both glint in the dark, but not all is gold.

15. Traditional Cobra And Roses Tattoo

The choice of a black and gray color palette in this tattoo adds a sense of mystery to its overall aesthetic, whereas the red, yellow, and green detailings give it a vibrant touch. The uncoiled and raised King Cobra with its forked tongue and fangs on display, exudes a sense of power and menacing feeling, and the roses, though dark, convey a subtle yet profound elegance. The tattoo is perfect for someone who wants something traditional and classic with a touch of badass.

16. Ouroboros Snake And Rose Tattoo

If you need a traditional tattoo with a classic meaning, this design is perfect for you. It showcases the mythical representation of ouroboros, a green serpent eating its tail, which represents the eternal cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Its combination with the red rose conveys the idea of transformation and renewal through the immortality of the idea of love and desire.

17. Red Sun Snake And Rose Tattoo

This traditional snake and rose tattoo has a mix of different elements that will help you feel lively, grounded, and protected. The turquoise blue rose in the design is associated with calmness and spiritual grounding, while the snake emerging from it represents protection and healing from loss. The red sun in the background is a symbol of energy and vitality and represents warmth and passion.

18. Twisted Tendrils Snake And Rose Tattoo

This tattoo is a masterful blend of vibrant reds, deep greens, and inky blacks. It offers a mesmerizing contrast between the fragile yet fortified rose and the cunning serpent. The twisted snake in the design represents the complexities of life, while the thorns serve as a reminder that even the most enchanting and beautiful things in life can come with its share of pain that can prove a learning experience protecting its bearer from future disappointments. While the serpent tries its hardest to capture the rose, bending its stem, it also screams in pain from the thorns protecting the rose.

19. Black Shaded Snake And Rose Tattoo

If you want a snake tattoo that sets you apart from the crowd, then a design idea like this one is sure to help you with your goal. What makes this design so cool is its black, yellow, red, and green colored detailing which play together to add depth and a vibrant and eye-catching contrast. The black shading in between the vibrant yellow, green and red seamlessly illustrate how darkness is at the core of every beautiful thing but a balance is key to an optimal life.

20. Whip-Shaded Snake And Rose Tattoo

 

This tattoo depicts a perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Even though it is inspired by the old-school American traditional design style, it still uses contemporary tattooing techniques and shading. You can notice a lot of whip work, which is a smoother and uniform version of dot work. The deliberate strokes create a perfect interplay of light and shadow and bring the cobra and rose in the tattoo to life, showing how modern and traditional can vibrantly co-exist.

21. Classic Daggered Snake And Rose Tattoo

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The regal and elegant tattoo design is a captivating choice for both men and women. It showcases a stunning dagger piercing through a red rose, which signifies overcoming struggles and adversities. The elegance of the snake blends perfectly to create a dynamic contrast with the delicate beauty of the rose. The tattoo is perfect for you if you need something to represent personal transformation or a significant change in your life.

22. Barbed Wire Snake And Rose Tattoo

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A barbed wire surrounds this edgy snake and rose tattoo and narrates a unique and powerful story. The snake is often associated with wisdom and strength and the barbed wire around the snake as it breaks through symbolizes the ability to overcome it. A delicate rose against these elements serves as a reminder that even amidst struggles and pain, beauty and growth can thrive.

protip_icon Did You Know?
The incorporation of barbed wire in tattoos became popular during the 90s, when Pamela Anderson sported it on her arm for the movie Barb Wire.

Small Snake Rose Tattoos

If large snake and rose tattoos are not your thing, you can always get them in a smaller size. They provide a more discreet and understated aesthetic that allows you to showcase your love for symbolism. Below are some designs you can try:

23. Minimalist White Contrast Rosy Serpent Tattoo

For those looking to get a small snake and rose tattoo, you can set your sights on this design. The snake in the design appears to be biting the rose which conveys the idea that danger is always lurking, out to strike at defenseless beauty, but the steady nature of the rose shows how resilience is the key to overcoming adversities. Furthermore, its placement on the wrist allows for greater visibility but the small size makes it an understated piece of work.

24. Dainty Intricate Snake And Roses Tattoo

The fine lines used in this tattoo make it truly one-of-a-kind. It incorporates a thoughtful use of blank space and white ink to highlight the design and enhance its depth for visual appeal. The tattoo is not only pleasing to the eye but also has a symbolic meaning, with the snake representing transformation and the roses symbolizing beauty and love coexisting in peace.

25. Simple Linework Snake And Rose Tattoo

You can never go wrong with a black linework tattoo, and this particular design symbolizing duality and transformation, is no different. The fine line work and the subtle use of gray in the design elevate it to a timeless work of art, while leaving room for enhancements, if so desired. The tattoo is perfect for anyone who wants a design that captures the eye without overpowering the overall composition.

26. Red And Crimson Snake And Rose Tattoo

This is a compact tattoo design for those who love all things red and monochrome. This finely inked tattoo features a sweet snake gracefully coiling around a striking rose and moving down the person’s lower back, which is where it is located. This intricate, little design incorporates fine red lines and subtle crimson shading. The only thing that breaks the monotony of the design is the snakes’ black eyes, which evoke a sense of mystery and allure, suggesting beauty and softness have many layers to them.

27. Fine Line Snake And Rose Tattoo

Here’s a snake and rose tattoo with a pretty great placement. The design represents resilience, transformation, and grace. What we really like about this piece is its super smooth shading and fine-line detailing that makes the snake appear almost like a ribbon around the rose, softening the edginess of the idea. If you love getting tattoos on your arm, this one at the backside of it can be an excellent addition to your roster.

28. Snake, Roses, And Sword Tattoo


This blackwork style small snake and rose tattoo is not ultra-realistic, but its unique design adds to its captivating appeal. The fine lines, detailed shading, and subtle highlights give it a  timeless and minimalistic approach. It also features a sword, which alongside the snake and roses creates a narrative of strength, courage, and beauty. For those who love medieval stories of bravery and chivalry and the interplay of dark hues and negative space, this striking piece is a must-have.

29. Venomous Wrapped Snake And Rose Tattoo

The shading in this black and gray piece is really something! This gothic design represents a dangerous dance between the serpent’s allure and the rose’s elegant beauty, a reference which is almost biblical: Eve being tempted by the serpent Satan in the Garden of Eden. The dark shading in the design adds dimension to the tattoo and the fine line detailings give it a clean look. The layout of how the snake is wrapped around the rose is also super smooth and silky.

30. Blue Snake And Orange Rose Tattoo

As if the orange rose isn’t stunning enough, the blue snake wrapped around it makes it even more appealing! This tattoo contains a perfect balance of dark and light hues which helps add some depth and perspective to the design. The rose renders it a sense of enthusiasm and excitement, while the blue snake is associated with good luck, creativity and enlightenment.

31. Personalized Snake And Roses Tattoo


There is no better way to commemorate an event or memory than getting a tattoo with the special date or a message on you. If you are looking for some ink inspiration for it, this design with 1973 in Roman numerals is perfect. You can get it personalized by adding your birth year, or even names and initials to the design. Together with the snake and rose, this little message can symbolically represent your special achievements in life that are worth protecting and treasuring.

32. Inner Arm Shaded Snake And Rose Tattoo

Tattoo placements like this one are definitely worth exploring. The snake wrapped around the rose can be associated with the balancing act between love and lust. When combined with the black ink shading of the tattoo and utilization of the negative space, it signifies how the opposing themes of light and darkness are in a delicate balance. This intricate, thought-provoking piece is the perfect way to represent the complexities of human emotions like the fight between pure passion and romantic love.

33. Abstract Snake And Rose Tattoo

This incredibly detailed yet intimidating tattoo design is the perfect size for its details. It is symbolic of transformation and rebirth, where the snake molts into a gorgeous rose and is bound to turn heads. The black and green realistic yet graphic color scheme and design adds a sense of superterrestrial mystery to the whole piece. Further, the placement of the piece on the calf is perfect to showcase your tattoo with ease.

Snake And Rose Back Tattoos

A snake-rose tattoo on the back is another popular placement, providing ample space that allows for intricate detailing and creative compositions. Check out some trendy snake and rose back tattoo designs below:

34. Blue Bloom Snake And Rose Tattoo

For a fresh take on the classic red rose and black snake ink design, consider this blue bloom tattoo. Etched between the contrasting black and gray details, this blue rose tattoo signifies sensitivity, appreciation and admiration. Paired with the black snake, it emphasizes the idea that you can cherish the beauty in life despite the hardships that come with it, and appreciate the experience of living.

35. Zodiac Snake And Rose Tattoo

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If you are into astrology and wish to have a snake and rose tattoo, why not combine the three elements? Celestial motifs like constellations are one of the most trendy astrological tattoo designs out there. This tattoo here integrates a cancer constellation with a snake winding around it, symbolizing transformation, loyalty and protection, while the addition of a rose can represent love, passion, and beauty.

protip_icon Quick Tip
If you know your natal chart, you can make this design even more personalized by incorporating your sun, moon, and rising signs together.

36. Black, White, And Gray Snake And Rose Tattoo

Look how sweet this piece looks on this person’s back. The tail end of the snake appears like a thorn itself as it slithers effortlessly around the rose, and the detailed shading for both elements is extraordinary. The clever use of white ink makes for stunning detailing that adds dimension to the tattoo design. This body art can represent sensuality, desire, and the creative life force.

37. Red Snake And Black Rose Tattoo

If you are looking to get a snake and black rose tattoo with a pop of color and fine lines, this one is a perfect choice. The black roses along with their leaves are shaded perfectly to enhance the tattoo design. The snake, on the other hand, is inked in red and looks like it is slithering its way through the rose. This body art can symbolize the balance of contrasting elements like good and evil, life and death, etc.

38. Protective Black Snake And Rose Tattoo

This striking tattoo showcases a smokey-shaded rose with a small snake wrapped around it as if acting as its guardian angel, protecting it from danger and adversities. The overall design can signify the idea that the beautiful things in life that bring you joy should be guarded and cherished. We think this tattoo will look great on men and women alike, and should have the room to stand out; hence, pick a spot like the back or thigh for this one.

39. Monochromatic Mid-Back Snake And Rose Tattoo

What a sensual and cool tattoo this is! It is all you need to set yourself apart from the same old gray and black tattoo designs. The use of subtle shading using the same color as the tattoo lines and negative spaces in the design adds dimension to the monochrome look.  The fine line detailings to showcase the snake’s scales looks stunning, as well. This tattoo can signify the complexity of life, where beauty, danger, love and deceit coexist.

40. Dual-Toned Snake And Rose Tattoo

Those looking to make a statement will adore this super clean, dual-toned body art to bits! Instead of tattooing the snake in black and the rose in red, the design inverses the color idea while keeping the snake in the background and the rose in the foreground. This contrasting use of colors can represent the existence of opposing forces like good and evil, love and hardships, etc. The tattoo sure does stand as a testament to the artistry and skill of the tattoo artists, and is a pure delight for the eyes.

41. Little Heart Snake And Rose Tattoo


The detail and shading in this little piece make it simply breathtaking and elegant! Just look at the clever use of white to create an effect as if light is reflecting off the snake’s slender body adding a touch of glimmer to it. You can also notice the miniscule heart embedded on the snake’s body that adds a personalized touch to the overall design. It can represent self-love and love for others as being the center of one’s being.

42. Fine Line Ouroboros Snake And Rose Tattoo

Here’s another snake-eating-its-tail tattoo you can try! It mirrors the endless loop of birth and death, and the rose symbolizes the inherent beauty in this cycle. It is a perfect design for you if you are looking for tattoos that signify rebirth and new beginnings. The rose in the middle can further enhance its meaning to represent the attainment of inner perfection or enlightenment to escape this cycle of reincarnation, as told in Buddhist philosophy.

43. Blossoming In Venom Snake And Rose Tattoo

This fine-lined, minimalist snake and rose tattoo on the back looks perfect. It features clean outlines and subtle gray shading that adds depth and dimension to it. With its rose petals unfolding beautifully and the snake moving away from the bloom, this tattoo symbolizes beauty emerging from something that was once hidden, indicating personal growth.

44. Shaded Snake And Rose Tattoo

This sizable mid-back tattoo design has an unmissable delicate and feminine feel to it. We love the perfectly rounded scales on the snake’s body and the fine-line shading in the rose and its leaves. If you like tattoos that appear with a fresh and clean look, this one is perfect. With the snake and rose artfully entwined, the design encourages feeling and acknowledging deep emotions like love, passion, sensuality, and desire.

Snake And Rose Spine Tattoos

Unlike back tattoos that may cover only a small part of it, snake and rose spine tattoos are usually long, sleek, and have visually stunning and flowing compositions. Here are some stunning spine tattoos that can help you make a bold statement:

45. Grayscale Rose And Snake Skeleton Tattoo

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This snake and rose tattoo on the spine is a bold choice and quite intricate. The rose with its thorned stem forms the base of the design. It is brought to prominence with fine outlines and gray shading, conveying a sense of foreboding in beauty. The snake’s skeleton, on the other hand, signifies deep love for loved ones who have passed away. It reminds us that we must cherish them, but move forward with our lives.

46. Intricate Crimson Roses And Black Snake Tattoo

Something about the contrasting red and black colors in this tattoo makes it super appealing. The rose stem stretches along the spine, with numerous roses and leaves emerging from it – all in red. The black snake appears as it is climbing the thorny stem slowly and smoothly. This combination can symbolize the delicate balance between opposing forces in life that makes our existence exciting and full of adventure.

47. Snake And RoseTattoo With Quote

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Red rose tattoo designs are always a visual treat, but pairing one with a serpent gives it a fierce appeal! This red rose tattoo with the quote “Remember who you are” forming its stem and a snake warped around it makes for a deeply personal tattoo design. The words of the quote signify that the tattoo is an expression of love and admiration for oneself and a reminder to never lose oneself in the chaos of life. Though the tattoo is placed directly on the spine, it only covers the back half-way down. This makes it perfect for someone who is looking for a spine tattoo that is not too long.

48. Multi-Colored Floral Serpent Tattoo

This snake and rose tattoo is perfect for anyone who wants to combine the power and intrigue of a snake with the beauty and fragility of the rose. One unique attribute of this eye-catching piece is that instead of the regular thorned flowers, this one features a thornless rose that symbolizes happiness and good fortune. The orange and red-colored snake with its fangs on display forms a protective stance over the flower and adds an element of fierce guardianship.

49. Dragon, Snake, And RoseTattoo

If you like mixing things up, check out this design! Combine your snake and rose tattoo with mythological elements like a dragon and sword that represent power, strength, spirituality, and good fortune. When you look closely, the sword also features the head of a goat on one side and a lion on the other; together, they symbolize vitality, fertility, bravery, courage, and fearlessness. This design will make you feel invincible and is also a beautiful work of art.

50. Realistic Snake And RoseTattoo

The snake and rose tattoo design is a captivating blend of black and gray hues. It features a snake slithering gracefully around the roses. The serpent, with its fine line details, almost looks lifelike and adds a touch of mystique to the design. The roses, meticulously crafted with varying shades of gray, steal the spotlight with their dark, velvety leaves contrasting against the softer tones of the petals. Together, these elements represent a balance between fragility and strength and mirror the duality of nature.

51. Lunar Snake And RoseTattoo

This full back tattoo requires commitment. And whoever said spine tattoos should be thin and slender along the natural spine, did not see this stunning artwork. It is designed keeping the axis of the spine in mind but covers almost the entire back. Along with the snake and roses, it features a moon that is associated with femininity. Together, these elements can symbolize protecting the emotional aspects of life for personal growth.

52. Anime-Inspired Snake And Roses Outline Tattoo

For all the anime fans out there, this animation-inspired snake between the two roses is the right call for you. The snake’s shading is so perfect that you can actually notice the tiny glimmer in its eye. We like the fact that the rest of the artwork is kept simple with only clean outlines. This design can indicate the duality of a person, where within the negativity there is always a glimmer of hope in the eye that should never be lost.

53. Mandala Snake And Rose Tattoo

Now this is something that anyone with an eye for detail would love! This piece is a fusion of a blackwork mandala snake and a minimalist red rose. The dazzling pattern on the snake and the clever interplay of black and white can signify the concept of the yin and yang. Also, the tattoo’s dark, rich tones convey a sense of mystery and suggest that life’s journey is full of twists and turns though the good and bad.

54. Thornless Roses And Snake Tattoo


If roses are not your thing, but you wish to join the trend of getting a rose and snake tattoo, why not cheat a little? Instead of getting the regular roses, opt for thornless roses, also called peonies. The lack of thorns in the design can represent innocence and purity, while peonies themselves symbolize honor and good fortune, and the long, slender snake that covers the entire spine symbolizes transformation, rebirth, and renewal. All the positive vibes!

55. Dragon-Snake And RoseTattoo

Now, if you are not a fan of snakes, you can just look to its mythological ancestor, the dragon. In ancient Greek mythology, the word for dragon also stands for a giant snake that possesses supernatural powers. The tattoo starts at the lower back followed by roses in different phases of bloom. This can be compared to the different phases of the moon that represent the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. The dragon snake in the red can represent the attainment of wisdom and the revelation of knowledge through these phases.

Snake And Rose Tattoo On Forearm

A rose tattoo with a snake design helps to add a sense of motion and depth to the design. Also, it represents the interconnectedness of beauty and nature.

56. Black And Gray Rose And Snake Tattoo

The black and gray tones add to the complexity of this rose and serpent tattoo. Further, the serpent wrapped around the delicate rose can represent life and death, creation and destruction, or even passion and sensuality. Thus, it can have various symbolic meanings. If you look closely, the flicked-out tongue of the snake can signify exploration or a warning sign to be aware of the potential danger.

57. Rose And Snake Forearm Tattoo With Filled And Unfilled Spaces

If you are looking for a unique tattoo to get inked, we say play up with the space. This rose and snake tattoo design made on grayscale incorporates strategic use of spacing which we feel is artistically impressive. Also, the forked tongue of the snake represents anger, aggression, and ruthlessness which stands in stark contrast to the delicacy of roses which are also inherently believed to be soothing to the eyes and soul of an individual.

  58. Celestial Rose And Snake Tattoo

This tattoo has an unmissable otherworldly feel! The moon positioned on the backdrop of roses and skull design represents creation and cyclical change in life. When combined with other design elements such as roses and a coiling snake with scale details on it looks helps to add to the overall theme of mystery and beauty. Also, the gradient shading and negative space help to capture the design intricacies with precision.

59. Red Rose And Snake Forearm Tattoo

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The line-adorned red rose around the fiery snake looks delicate and beyond adorable. It might represent strength and power and can be interconnected with feminine beauty. What’s another interesting aspect about this tattoo is that the red fine lines on the rose help to add its gentleness, while the very line depicting the tongue of the snake helps to highlight its ferociousness.

60. Colored Rose And Snake Tattoo


This piece of artwork isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but we still feel this larger-than-life tattoo looks incredible. The snake wrapped on the stem of a blooming rose and with a rosebud at the top makes for an interesting combination. The fully blossoming rose refers to it as it’s the peak of beauty while the rosebud can signify the stage of growth or beginning of a new phase of life. The overall composition can signify the complexities of life and change.

A snake and rose tattoo is not just some ink on the skin! It is a narrative of your wants, desires and beliefs, and everyone’s got their own take on it. For some, it can represent the balance between good and evil, while for others it signifies deep emotions like love and hate, or even reemergence and overcoming hardships. And the best part is that the meaning keeps evolving with every person who gets it. The tattoo is versatile enough to be etched on any part of your body and you can even add to its symbology by including more elements like the sun, moon, stars, dragons, and even your astrological sign. No wonder these tattoos are among the most sought-after versatile ink designs!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a specific style that works well for snake and rose tattoos?

Yes, snake and rose tattoos often look great in traditional styles. These include a combination of bold lines and vibrant colors that enhance the contrast between the powerful snake and the delicate petals of the rose. However, it is recommended to get the tattoo in a style that suits your personal preference.

Can I get a snake and rose tattoo in a watercolor style?

Yes, you can get a snake and rose tattoo in a watercolor style. It not only adds a contemporary touch to the tattoo but also emphasizes the fluidity of emotions, adding to its symbolism. However, keep in mind that watercolor tattoos may fade faster than traditional styles, and you may need regular touch-ups to maintain them.

How do you ensure that the snake and rose tattoo ages well over time?

Here is what you can do to ensure that your snake and rose tattoo ages well with time:
• Avoid placements like fingers and joints that experience less friction, which may lead to fading
• During the healing process, keep your tattoo clean and moisturized to ensure that it heals well.
• After the initial healing, always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen to the tattooed area before stepping out in the sun.
• Keep the skin hydrated and avoid abrasive cleansers and exfoliants, as they can damage the tattoo over time.
• Consider getting touch-ups if needed, as tattoos may naturally fade over time, and touch-ups can restore their original vibrancy.

How do you choose the right size for a snake and rose tattoo?

You can choose a size for a snake and rose tattoo that fits the desired placement on your body. For instance, opt for small designs for less surface area placements, like the wrist, while a large design may work for the spine or the thigh. Similarly, the size of the tattoo may depend on its details. For intricate patterns, a larger size may be preferable.

Can I get a snake and rose tattoo in water-resistant or UV-resistant ink?

Yes, you may get a snake and rose tattoo in water-resistant ink, as most of the inks are resistant to water when they dry. However, there is nothing yet called UV-resistant ink. You can protect your tattoo from UV rays by minimizing sun exposure and using sunscreen before stepping out.

Key Takeaways

  • Snake and rose tattoos have various symbolic meanings like transformation, rebirth, the balance between opposing forces, and good luck and protection.
  • These tattoos encourage the wearer to embrace both positive and negative experiences to achieve true happiness.
  • They may symbolize the ability to fight challenges, embrace new beginnings, and attain personal growth.
  • These tattoos may indicate a spiritual journey or act as a talisman to guard the wearer from bad energies.

Illustration: Snake And Rose Tattoo Ideas With Meaning

60 Snake And Rose Tattoo Ideas With Meaning

Image: Dall·E/StyleCraze Design Team

A snake and rose tattoo can be a perfect way to showcase your bold and emotional side. This video will give you an idea of what the process of getting it looks like. Click play to check it out!

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Brik Rangel
Brik RangelTattoo Artist
Brik Rangel is a highly skilled tattoo artist who has 12 years of experience in the field. She specializes in transformative tattoo makeovers and cover-ups. After honing her craft in São Paulo, Brazil, she now works as a tattoo artist and manager at Manhattan Tattoos in New York, and as a tattoo artist at Divine Tattoos in New Jersey.

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Joyce Joyson
Joyce JoysonBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Joyce Joyson is a beauty and lifestyle writer with over a year of experience crafting short-form content for the beauty, fashion, and lifestyle niches. She has a triple majors bachelor’s degree in History, Political Science, and Geography from IIS University and a master’s degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from Kristu Jayanti College.

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Aparna HarryBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Aparna Harry is a beauty and lifestyle content writer with over three years of experience in writing for different genres. She has a master’s degree in English Literature from The English And Foreign Languages University and a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Mysore.

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