The skull carries countless symbolic meanings and associations, from macabre reminders of our mortality to membership in secret, subterranean societies.

For thousands of years humans have feared, admired, and utilized the human skull in both art and worship.

Few things send a more defiant message than the famed flaming skull, made prominent in the 20th century as a way to signify one’s fearlessness in the face of death and at the prospect of their own demise. Traditionally depicted in tattoo art as an anatomical skull embellished by flames, from there the many themes and styles vary according to personal taste. Many prefer their flaming skull Hell’s Angels-style, with an unmistakably metal aesthetic, while others opt for a more Gothic or ritualistic motif.

Worn boldly on the bicep, calf, or shoulder, a flaming skull tattoo is not for the faint of heart. This belongs to the man who is not held hostage by his mortality, but walks the line between comfort and danger with a devilish grin and cool disdain. While some may be shocked by his rebellious disregard, he knows better: it’s the only way to feel fully alive.

See more about – The Ultimate 145+ Best Skull Tattoo Ideas

1. The best of the best: flaming skull tattoos

The flaming skull tattoos above represent the best depictions of this style, and are very much a new school interpretation. They balance the brilliance of color and technique – a tremendous range of different flame effects built on contrasting colors with black ink – with sublime, accurate anatomical delivery of the bones themselves. These pieces of body art also challenge the skull tattoo stereotype by incorporating intricate shadowy smoke, vivid flame palettes and almost x-ray clarity, with spot on saturation and fine needle to create wildly successful 3D images and killer customized color.