Lions are often used in animal tattoo art to describe power, physicality, or leadership due to the big cat’s position as the King of the Jungle.

From the proud astrological sign of Leo to Aslan, the fabled ruler of Narnia, the lion is the king of both man and fellow beast, a symbol of courage and regal bearing.

Famous across world history and the breadth of tattoo culture, the following article defines the different kinds of lion body art and the range of symbolic or application meaning attached to big cat tattoo art. 

You’ll find plenty of useful knowledge that you can take to your tattoo artist to create your perfect lion tattoo design.

Symbolic Lion Tattoo Meaning

1. Historical Cultural Lion Meanings

The ancient Romans often used the symbol of the lion to express their love, while ancient Egyptians carved great statues of two lions with their backs touching in representation of eternal balance. 

Alternatively, the lion tattoo idea can be used to represent one’s Christian and Islamic beliefs. The Chinese were the first to grace their palaces and monuments with guardian lions made from stone.

Medieval Europeans held the lion as one with royalty, even keeping them as courtly pets, while in African belief systems the lion is linked to self-control and discipline.

Lion symbolism is also hugely popular in England due to its association with the three lions banner of King Richard the Lionheart, which is used as the country’s badge in popular sports such as football, cricket, and rugby. 

2. Lion With Crown Tattoos

No animal approaches the lion in regards to regal sentiment, which is why you’ll see a lot of crown tattoo ideas.

Not only has the United Kingdom flown the crowned lion on its flags and coat of arms for centuries, but the beast itself is also chief among royalty in the animal kingdom.