When most people think of tribal tattoos they think of the large scale, intricate Polynesian pieces or fearsome face tattoos of the NZ Maori.

Others think of massive black ink designs popular for all sorts of different people in the early 2000s.

The truth is that some of the most symbolic, interesting tribal designs are etched very small but pack in the same arresting qualities of their larger counterparts.

As with tribal designs from many tattoo cultures, small pieces are etched with precise linework, and almost uniformly in black ink to create symbols of animal motifs and totems, family scenes, or designs of personal protection guidance, protection and strength.

The following collection of beautiful small tribal designs will captivate and give you inspiration for a significant cultural tattoo of your own.

1. Animal Themed Small Tribal Tattoo Ideas

Source: @_tiny_ink via Instagram

Source: @brokenchainstattoo via Instagram

Source: @brunorua.ink via Instagram

Source: @dagmarakokocinska via Instagram

Source: @laineytattoo via Instagram
Source: @dragonalien1 via Instagram

Source: @leolisboa_tattoo via Instagram

Source: @mira_ghost via Instagram

Source: @mr.wilsontattoo via Instagram

Source: @shonmatushak via Instagram

Source: @verotattooine via Instagram

Source: @taylorpaigetattoos via Instagram

2. Small Tribal Tattoos for the Ankle and Lower Leg

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Source: @rafa_ferrari_tattoo via Instagram

Source: @street_art_tattoo via Instagram

Source: @tattoojuj via Instagram

Source: @priscillaspreafico via Instagram

3. Upper Arm Small Tribal Designs

Source: @dc14_tattoos via Instagram

Source: @dtf_tattoo via Instagram

Source: @eddieborneoink via Instagram

Source: @fungusart via Instagram