In terms of symbolism, memento mori is a very ancient tradition, and there are few others so fully integrated into a wide range of cultures and traditions. The memento mori is a remembrance of death that has been engraved onto objects for thousands of years to serve as a reminder of virtues such as reflection and humility. The concept dates back to ancient Rome when an ordinary man would follow a triumphant general on his victory parade and whisper to him that he was just a mortal man, after all.

During Europe’s medieval period, it was revived as an art form that played a part in both art and literature. It also served as an element of knightly honor and morality, and it was widespread among knights.

Today, memento mori tattoos are a popular choice for men, but the meaning of the tattoo retains much of its early signs. Even though it might include symbols like a shroud, a skull, or a grim reaper, this is not a morbid or macabre symbol. Rather, it reminds us of our shared destiny: we are all mortal men, fated to die, so we should be concerned with improving ourselves and our character while we still have time to live.

 Thus keeping all this in mind, we have created a list that includes all the memento mori tattoo designs that we think could inspire you to get one of your own. Thus take a look ahead to know about the meanings behind this tattoo and the ideas which you can use for this kind of tattoo.

Meaning Of Memento Mori Tattoo Designs

If you are considering getting a tattoo, you should find out its meaning or what it stands for. Its meaning is essentially the same as that of the Latin word memento mori, which means to remember death or suffer death. Taking its origin from the Medieval Latin Christian theory of mortality reflection practice, it developed in Europe during the Middle Ages. It has long been a fundamental part of the ascetic discipline to cultivate indifference and know the truth about the immortality of the character to perfect the character.

In addition to Hell, Heaven, and soul recovery, this tattoo design included symbols representing Hell, Heaven, and the afterlife. ‘Memento Mori” is a concept that draws on the practices and theory of mortality. Anyone thinking about death might connect to the sensation of being alone or scared. In any case, this term is meant to remind us that everything and everyone eventually dies, so it is better to be victorious over the concept rather than an alternative. The goal of this tattoo is to remind oneself to live every day to its fullest because you never know when it may be your time to go.

Ideas for Memento Mori Tattoo Designs

Now that we know all the meanings behind the memento mori tattoo design, it is time to look at the ideas that we can use to make our own memento mori design. In this section, we will talk about certain variations that you can use to make your tattoo or add your own twist to the existing designs that we will show below.

Ambigram Tattoo

In an ambigram, the text is used in a stylized manner to create an interesting design. The word ambigram refers to a drawing that manages to convey not one, but two different readings from the same set of curves. 

The effect created by this interesting approach to script can be quite shocking and leave people scratching their heads, trying to interpret the different flipped and reversed text as if it were a tongue twister. In addition to the aesthetic aspect, these designs also have an intellectual component: we are all heading toward death no matter what our perspective is.

Memento Mori Skull Ideas

Death and mortality are among the images that skulls are most associated with, making them the perfect choice for memento mori tattoos. Because of the deep association with death and the fact that they are instantly recognizable, many of the earliest artistic representations of this concept included skulls and skeletons. With such a diverse range of styles and approaches, skulls can help add a distinctive and eye-catching element to a wide variety of works of art.  

Simple Script

This script is an excellent way to get directly to the point of a tattoo, so when it comes to a phrase like this, it is an essential addition. Numerous styles and schools make there hundreds of typefaces and fonts to choose from, which ensures that the Chicano alphabet caters to every sensibility, although the ornate and highly stylized Chicano alphabet is some of the most popular and impressive.  

Trash Polka Memento Mori Ideas

There is an interesting style known as Trash Polka, developed in Germany, characterized by realistic imagery, often portraits, with graphic scripts and the effect of splattered and smudged ink (they are the trash in the style). In truth, collage-style tattoos are particularly suited to memento mori tattoos, given their ability to convey a story through a unified composition and incorporate a variety of images.  

Black and Grey Memento Mori Ideas

In keeping with the timeless and subdued sensibility of black and gray tattooing, these precious reminders of our limited lives are perfectly suited to be tattooed. With the use of precise linework and gray tones, a gifted artist can develop photographic portraits that are as realistic as those found in life, to designs more reminiscent of early 1900s lithographs.  

Hourglass Memento Mori Ideas

The hourglass is another excellent symbol of the transitory and fleeting nature of time and is perfect to incorporate into these tattoos. From vibrant color tattoos that jump out of the skin to more subdued designs, hourglasses provide plenty of creative room for artists and can be a powerful addition to a memento mori tattoo — or any tattoo for that matter. 

Black Ink Traditional Memento Mori Tattoos

The black linework tattoos take an approach that is reminiscent of the lithographs that carried the original Christian images for memento mori. The artists’ bold application of precise lines makes it possible for them to create unique pieces that completely capture the idea behind this ancient concept. The gravestone, skull, and skeleton themes are all used to inspire.  

Tattoos dedicated to the memory of the deceased both traditional and neotraditional

American traditional and neo-traditional tattoo styles are prevalent in these interesting designs, which display bold lines and saturated colors. These pieces use many of the elements that are commonly found in these styles – skulls, daggers, and roses – to bring out the depth of this concept while also creating eye-catching and unique tattoos.  

Minimalist Script Memento Mori Tattoos

Several hundred different typefaces and fonts are available for use, and as we have seen, some people prefer the flourishes and decorative elements of more stylized scripts, whereas others prefer a simpler style. Through the use of the restrained script work used by these tattoo artists, these artists perfectly capture the essence of memento mori by using precise lines and a minimalistic approach.  

Where Should You Get Memento Mori Tattoo Design?

No matter if it is a client’s first tattoo or not, they might be having difficulty choosing a placement for it. Choosing the right spot to get a tattoo is essential to how well it looks. If you want the right memento mori tattoo designs, you must pick the right place so that the design symbolizes its meaning and also matches your personality.

Even though modern society regards death as a terrible reality, people with this tattoo show that they are unfrightened of dying. It is for this reason that memento mori tattoos have gained in popularity in recent years. There are several places where you can get this tattoo including backs, chests, legs and thighs, arms, shoulders, biceps, forearms, upper arms, wrists, minimalistic tattoos on fingers, below the neck, ankles, and elbows.

For Women

• Ankle
• Wrist
• Finger spaces
• Hands
• Shoulder blade
• Behind the ear

For Men

• Chest
• Biceps
• Legs
• Neck
• Back
• Forearms

List of Memento Mori Designs

• Marvelous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

A memento mori definition will appeal to guys who enjoy black designs along with darker meanings. It is a piece that is suitable for those who enjoy leg or thigh tattoos, and the placement will make it stand out without being uncomfortable. You should make sure your tattoo artist has experience in tattooing skull designs before getting this tattoo.

• Nice Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Why not combine this ancient saying with a skull tattoo design to create a powerful statement? Both your hand and your leg will look great when wearing this. This size of memento mori tattoo design can still look great!

• Lovable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

In addition to Memento Mori Tattoos, female tattoo artists love to combine them with female lifelike characters. If you are planning to get tattoos that are inspiring, and standard ones, you should place this design on your chest or leg.

• Lovely Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

By choosing black ink, you will make any Ancient Rome tattoo stand out. There are many details you can incorporate into a tattoo to make it even more appealing. The memento mori will look great in combination with a bird, rose, hourglass, or another symbol that suits your tattoo design.

• Fabulous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

You can use tattoo designs for a memento mori when you want to remember. In conjunction with a poison print tattoo or a flower tattoo sign, this Memento tattoo will seem very realistic. Make sure to place your tattoo somewhere obvious on your body after you find the perfect one.

• Fantastic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

Those who enjoy brighter designs and colorful tattoos may be attracted to this tattoo. If you combine a Memento Mori with a Grim reaper tattoo, it will look even more authentic.

• Dashing Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Those who are fans of Ancient Rome and simplistic tattoos may find this one interesting. As an alternative to the Memento Mori, you can tattoo an hourglass next to it if you prefer geometric designs, as well as symmetrical shapes.

• Skully Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

In case you’re not into usual or simple memento mori phrases or designs, consider getting a carpe diem et memento mori tattoo. From day to day you can enjoy different yet amazing designs by switching up your tattoos from time to time.

• Beautiful Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Chest

Ink your forearm with tattoo tags if you are into the bold look and interesting fonts. There’s nothing quite like this Memento Mori, which can be worn by anyone who enjoys catchy, lifelike tattoos.

• Smart Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

If you decide to get this tattoo, make sure it is done by a skilled tattoo artist who can do an awesome shading job. Make sure to look at different tattoo designs as well as artists before you settle on a particular design.

• Sober Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Guys who work out often get giant back tattoos, along with sleeve tattoos. You are one of them, aren’t you? Considering this, you may like the idea of ink over your back, along with subtle prints and hints of other items.

• Memorable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

The tattooed words Memento mori appear on the blade of the knife. The guys who prefer a more masculine, yet smaller, tattoo design will definitely enjoy this bolder, yet smaller tattoo.

• Cool Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

Lastly, you can have Memento mori over thigh done in the italic and precise font. The effect will be dramatic and striking at the same time. This Memento mori option is more suitable for guys who like neat tattoos and who are into black ink.

• Pretty Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Memento mori designs would look pretty awesome made like this. You can pick up any cool symbolic addition with this design.

• Circular Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

This Memento mori design is done with a  skull in the form of a coin which looks pretty indefensible.

• Gentle Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

A skull might also represent death and how certain it is. The shading effect looks pretty coolly and it is a great design overall.

• Flowery Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

I really like how chic this memento mori tattoo looks.

• Generous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

This memento mori tattoo is added with hour glass as well as a skull which looks perfect!

• Periodical Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The banner is a great addition to your memento mori tattoo which will solidify your meaning.

• Adorable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

I really liked this design with a shading effect that looks super cool.

• Attractive Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

This is a wholesome design that represents the meaning of life and death.

• Charming Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

It is one of the most common designs when it comes to memento mori tattoos.

• Enchanting Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

I think this memento mori tattoo is super cute, simple, and very funny!

• Captivating Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

This beautiful design covers the forearm of the wearer which looks really nice.

• Wonderful Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The black and grey ink effect really brings the whole design into a very different light.

• Likable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

This little design is super chic.

• Matched Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The hourglass is a great addition to your skin because it shows the aspect of time and immortality.

• Engaging Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

The watercolor effect on the chest looks pretty nice and super creative.

• Florid Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The dot work that has been done here is commendable!

• Colorful Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

I really like the addition of the watercolor effect in this morose memento mori tattoo.

• Beautiful Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Chest

The chest designs are always special because it represents that you care for something a lot.

• Fantastic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Chest

The memento mori tattoo here is made on the back and looks super neat.

• Smart Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

You can add various objects that might cater to your own symbolism.

• Cool Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

This memento mori tattoo is super nice and very different from other designs on the list.

• Ornated Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

A text design would always look really nice because of the various font and the experiments that one can deliver.

• Phased Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

The shading effect really adds to the spookiness of the whole design.

• Imaginable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

A simple skull is perfect to express your theory!

• Polished Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

This is a simple memento mori tattoo that is made on the leg.

• Creative Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

Outline tattoos always look super neat and very beautiful!

• Targeted Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

This is a superbly realistic memento mori tattoo that has been made on the upper arm.

• Perfect Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

This is a great tattoo design that has covered the whole arm. It si did with a pretty amazing shading effect that looks wonderful. The watercolor effect is also quite endearing.

• Desirable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

It is a great outline tattoo that is made on the thigh. It looks pretty amazing.

• Massive Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

This memento mori tattoo is very realistic and the color combination really makes it look authentic.

• Small Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

The heart represents a lot of things that the memento mori tattoo stands for. Here, it is made with bold lines that look great!

• Incredible Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Ribcage

The ribs are a great placement option if you have an extensive design like this one.

• Wondrous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Body

This memento mori tattoo is made on the ribs which look pretty amaizng.

• OutstandingMemento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

This design is super realistic and I really liked the efforts that go behind it because the result is super amaizng.

• Ultimate Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

I really liked this amazing memento mori tattoo which is done with a beautiful shading effect. The banner with flowers also adds value to it.

• Sad Truth Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

It is a great design with amazing dot work and a purple flower that is pretty nice.

• Classic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Wrist

This is a beautiful and small memento mori tattoo that has been made with black ink.

• Memorable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

I like how fine lines have been used in this quite interesting tattoo design.

• Fantastic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

This black ink memento mori tattoo looks pretty caricaturish!

• Flamboyant Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Shoulder

I really liked the neatness the tattoo artists have shown here which looks pretty superb.

• Ornamental Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

This is a great memento mori tattoo that is made on the upper part of the chest.

• Adorable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Back

This font that is used to make the tattoo is exceptionally beautiful!

• Impeccable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

I really like this half skull idea which has been made on the backside of the arm.

• Comprehensive Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

It can not be simpler than this kind of design.

• Distinctive Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

This memento mori tattoo has a lot of efficient symbolism going on that looks pretty stark!

• Notable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

Skull symbolism emphasizes the importance of practicing hard work so that you can build your personal empire. To put it another way, you can exercise your own strength by keeping hope and going step by step on your journey. Aside from shifting your mindset, you should also adopt an active mindset. Your wait is over. This is the moment you have been looking forward to.

• Peculiar Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Despite your failures in life, you should take every lesson you have learned from them as a learning experience. Alternatively, you should understand that successful people miss a lot of opportunities in life, but they do not give up. Therefore, it is very important to fail early, to fail regularly, and to fail forward. Getting up and pushing forward is all that’s required.

• Unusual Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

A beautiful text design gives you the freedom of selecting your own font.

• Marvelous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

This memento mori tattoo has loads of symbols and its complexity makes it quite attractive.

• Wondrous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Skull’s meaning basically means to not give up easily, but instead, take up challenges that will help you grow. The person you should be does not fear failure and thrives on success. Let your negative side constitute less than 1% of who you are. 

• Lettered Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

Texts are a great way to show your love for creative designs.

• Sweet Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

A very minimalistic and simplistic design like this one looks quite amazing on the back of the elbow.

• Classy Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

In fact, if you love success and get serious about it, you’ll become strong enough. If you were strong until you saw every failure as an opportunity to achieve your goal, you would be successful. Remember that you should never give up on your dreams if there is a chance. The opportunity to become great is there for you- This is what Memento Mori stands for.

• Adorable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Front Body

Firstly, let us establish the spooky symbolism that more obviously exists. Some people would be scared by the skull. Your body is meant to keep these things inside; they shouldn’t be seen.

• Nice Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

To see a skull, you must wait for a dead body to decompose. When you see a skull, your mind automatically goes to death. Symbolically, the skull may represent death, reflecting this aspect of the skull.

• Scholar Memento Mori Tattoo Design On the arm

We tend to associate the skull with death when we think of it. A skeleton is typically seen in the face of the Grim Reaper or Death himself in paintings and other artwork. Skulls, even though they are part of a complete skeleton, still evoke the thought of death whenever they are pictured. Occasionally, this fact causes us to consider our own death. Death, as well as life and mortality, is represented in this manner.

• Precious Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

As well as being the personification of Death, the skull or skeleton stands for wisdom over humanity. Our death is predetermined by Death, when it will happen and how it will happen. To prevent it, there is nothing that can be done. Because death has always been wiser than we are, the skull also represents divine wisdom and general wisdom.

• Precious Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Traditionally, villages and cities would hang up their enemies. Upon entering their territory, they would be informed that their fate would be the same, if not worse. Those words sent a clear message that probably caused many people to be cautious about going to new places. Because of this technique, the skull has historically been associated with warning.

• Pleasing Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Back

The rose symbol represents other things besides death, but these things are also closely related to our mortality. 

• Bombastic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Nevertheless, the skulls served as a representation of protection as well. Two things occurred as a result of the skulls planted. One, the villagers did not encounter these people and, two, the villagers did not encounter these people either. The skulls were dual in nature and stood for both warning and protection, as already outlined. Although most people don’t think of protection when they see a skull, it remains a symbol for protection nonetheless.

• Blissful Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

You may have a Memento Mori tattoo for any reason, or you may just be considering getting one, but knowing about its symbolism is always intriguing. There is more to the Memento Mori than supernatural things; it is an emblem of wisdom and protection. At least you will have a greater appreciation for your tattoo by knowing the symbolism behind it

• Heavy Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Shoulder

Basically, the skull’s symbolic meaning is that life is the most important thing. As such, you need to be strong enough to pursue your dreams regardless of circumstances. It would be irresponsible to turn down this opportunity because you would live your life regretting everything. 

• Superb Memento Mori Tattoo Design On the shoulder

To learn about life experience, Skuld symbolism is regarded as a symbol of wisdom. As well as hard work and patience, greatness is achieved through perseverance. An intelligent person will explain how these aspects work, and how they work for everyone. A person should constantly be open to learning new things to ensure that they remain flexible in their lives. 

• Valiant Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Those who believe in the negative aspects of themselves can become slaves of themselves. You should also take advantage of your chances now to avoid regrets later. The chances are great that you will see them coming before they actually occur, so remember that.

• Striking Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

Positive thinking and optimism are essential in life. You will probably achieve your dreams soon because you have decided to follow the right path in your life. You understand that greatness is waiting for you. You should not be afraid to fail either because you will learn the most through failure.

• Artistic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

You should move in the direction where you will become stronger if you heed the advice of the skull symbol along with your Memento Mori design. In addition, you have the option of choosing whether to live a happy life or live with regrets. Someone with regrets is someone who gives up on their dreams. Never give up on your dream, but be strong to go after it because you will keep failing until you succeed one day. 

• Awesome Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Hence, you need to keep pushing and believing in yourself step by step. You want something that will make the entire world rejoice, so keep that in mind as you move forward. The process is not easy, but the benefits far outweigh the difficulties.

• Amazing Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

The Humans’ quest for something beyond has always been fundamentally motivated by a reminder of their mortality. In an ideal world, nobody would seek spirituality in case they never knew that they would die. 

• Kindling Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

Whenever someone dies, the mortal nature of our existence hits you somewhere deep in our bodies; this is more than just an emotional reaction.

• Sweet Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Neck

You feel the effects of any dead form in the body rather than in your mind if your senses are sensitive. There may also be psychological and emotional reactions, but the most important thing is that the body absorbs life as it sees fit.

• Remember You Will Die Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

As a result, our bodies have their own memories, which are individually controlled. At the moment, the memory that your body carries is taking over more than the memories that live in your head. It is the body’s memory that is more significant than a person’s mental memory.

• Appealing Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Foot

We are so close to death that the space between us is so thin. In nature, those spaces or lines are narrowed. Nature constantly reminds you of how transitory your existence really is. As long as you are constantly aware of your mortality, as long as you are always aware that you will go, as long as you are constantly aware that your physical body won’t survive any longer, that everything you own is going to disappear.  With your spiritual quest unwavering, you have made great strides.

• Appeasing Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Back

Keep your body constantly in mind so that you’re ever conscious of its nature. The moment you get up, you’re just a heap of earth staggering around. You aren’t a piece of earth, but a little piece around which everything in your life revolves. A small mound becomes a mound when you get sucked into the ground by the earth.

• Lovely Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

As always, this is the most important meaning. It’s the reason you see the skull on warning signs that make it clear ignoring them will likely result in death. Human skulls remind people of death because we never see them in these circumstances.You wouldn’t want to see the skull of a loved one you’ve lost—they are a stark reminder that their soul is gone, their body has decomposed, and they are no longer with us. Having to deal with something so emotional is extremely challenging.

• Thunderous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Other people, however, are reminded of their mortality by this scene. Some people find it helps to realign their focus on making the most of their lives when it makes them think of what will happen to them one day.

• Mesmerizing Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

While this is a greta deisgn other people, meanwhile, get jewelry or tattoos showing a skull to remind themselves that we are mortals. Although it is still a symbol of death, the skull will continue to have spiritual significance.

• Picturesque Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Death isn’t always symbolized by the hourglass, but they can serve as a reminder that death is likely. Villages have placed the hourglasses since time immemorial to remind trespassers and other enemies not to mess with them.

• Heroic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

In case the warning appears on the product label, you should also follow it. Because of that, the Momento Mori  holds so much significance.

• Bold Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

As a spiritual guide you may benefit from having a skull to keep away from things that cause peril. It is possible to wear a skull bracelet to keep away unwanted energies, either actively or otherwise.

• Incredible Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The somber symbol of protection helps keep us on our toes as we make our way through life, regardless of how we feel about the symbol.

• Remarkable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Altars are constructed on neighbor’s graves to honor their loved ones, with traditional meals presented as well.

• Cheering Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

Similarly, the vanitas still life can be viewed as a memento mori picture. As well as the symbols of mortality, these may include other symbols like musical instruments, wine, and books, to remind us that worldly pleasures and goods are merely vanities (in the sense of unworthiness). Originally, the term comes from Ecclesiastes 1:21: ‘Vanity of vanities, all is vanity,’ proclaims the preacher in the Book of Ecclesiastes.

• Memorable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The Latin phrase memento mori means ‘remember that one must die. Basic memento mori paintings would consist of a portrait with a skull on it, but other symbols commonly found are extinguished candles, hourglasses, flowers, fruit, and flowers.

• Generous Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The vanitas and memento mori pictures received their first wave of popularity in the seventeenth century, during a religious period in which nearly everyone believed that life was merely preparation for another life. However, modern artists have continued to experiment with this genre.

• Heavy Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

The Latin phrase “Memento mori,” which means “remember that you [must] die,” serves as a symbolic reminder of the inevitability of death. In medieval funeral art and architecture, the concept appears to have roots in the philosophers of classical antiquity. At the end of the 16th century, skull or coffin jewelry was popular, and it was reflected in the artistic genre of vanitas, characterized by symbolic items, such as hourglasses and withering flowers, that acknowledged the transience of life.

• Modern Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

Plato’s Phaedo, which recounts the death of Socrates, introduces the notion that the proper practice of philosophy consists of “nothing else but death.” Democritus trained himself by spending time in solitude and frequenting tombs.

• Lovely Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Finger

The Stoics of classical antiquity in particular used this discipline extensively, and Seneca’s letters are replete with injunctions to meditate on death. As Epictetus described in his works, when one kisses a child, brother, or friend, one should remind himself of his mortality, curtailing their pleasure, as do “those who stand behind people in their triumphs and remind them of their mortality.” As Marcus Aurelius described in his Meditations, the reader should “consider how meaningless and ephemeral mortal life is”.

• Antique Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Several Old Testament passages call for remembrance of death. Psalm 90:12 prays that Moses will teach his people that they may get a heart of wisdom by counting their days (Moses prays for this in Psalm 90:12). Throughout Ecclesiastes, the Preacher declares that it is better to attend the house of mourning than a celebration, for this is the end of all mankind, and everyone alive will have this in mind (Eccles. 7:2). The lifespan of humans is described by Isaiah as being comparable to the short lifespan of grass: “When the breath of the LORD blows on it, the grass withers and the flower fades; everyone is grass,” (Is. 40:7).

• Special Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

During the growth of Christianity, the concept of memento mori developed to emphasize the afterlife and the existence of Heaven and Hell. As Tertullian claimed, a triumphant general would have someone (in later versions, a slave) standing behind him with a crown on his head, whispering “Respice post te. Hominem te memento” (“Look after you [to the time after your death] and remember you’re [only] a man.”). The use of this trope has become an established tradition, but no other ancient writer confirms it, and it might have been Christian moralizing rather than accurate historical reporting.

• Acceptable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

These somber teachings have long been a source of inspiration for artists, who use this philosophy as a springboard for their work. Skull art, which, yes, has its origins in memento mori, has remained a popular aesthetic niche for years. We all leave this earth at some point, as evidenced by skeletons, skulls, and perhaps even skulls with wings. Mortality is most often symbolized through skulls in memento mori art, and skulls are the most common symbol.

• Victorious Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

To practice this practice, people had to detach themselves from the goods and luxuries of this world. The transient nature of these vanity items was contrasted with the idea of immortality and emphasizing forgiveness in the afterlife. These ideas inevitably led to rich artistic imagery, which is now commonplace as a result of many philosophies of the time.

• Nice Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

History encourages people to reflect on death and its meaning during times of strife, particularly. During the medieval period, when plagues ravaged Europe, a particular philosophy encouraged people to think about life and death through contemplation of objects. A discipline known as memento mori, which means remembering that one will die, may seem morbid to some, but it was regarded highly by the people of ancient Rome.

• Mortality Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Back

Our mortality is reflected in the phrases “here today, gone tomorrow” and “nothing lasts forever.” These phrases reflect the fleeting nature of life, reminding us of the fragility of life. Today, most cultures find the idea of discussing death uncomfortable, but this wasn’t the case historically.

• Humble Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Ankle 

The Stoic finds this thought both humbling and invigorating. As a result, it is not surprising that Seneca’s life is subtitled Dying Every Day. After all, Seneca urged us to remind ourselves that we may not wake up tomorrow when we go to bed and that we may never sleep again when we wake up as a reminder of mortality. Epictetus’ students were advised by him to dwell on death and exile daily so that they would never become liable to reckless behavior or excessive desires. Use those reminders and meditate on them daily so that you will live your life to the fullest and waste no time.

• Bony Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

You can only feel depressed if you do not see the point of contemplating your mortality. Prioritization is in fact a tool to create meaning and priority. Perspective and urgency are tools that generations have used to create real change. Time is a treasure to be cherished and not wasted on the stupid and irrational. Life isn’t pointless when someone dies; rather, it makes it more meaningful. It’s not necessary to end up nearly dead to tap into this. It only takes a simple reminder to bring us closer to living the life we desire. Nobody knows how many things they have left to do, but a car can hit them in an intersection and drive their teeth right back in their heads. It’s that simple. There is a possibility that the whole thing will end. Someday soon, someday today.

• Superb Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Throughout history, many artists have used visual clues to provoke reflection about the ephemeral nature of material possessions and the need to value the soul.

• Wonderful Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

There are other symbols used to express memento mori, however. Artists have long explored life’s fragile nature through a variety of metaphors in Western art history. These concepts were explored through still life painting in the Netherlands particularly. The paintings in this series were referred to as vanitas (19th century Latin for vanity) throughout the 16th century and 17th century. The people of the time used to decay and ephemerality as symbols to illustrate decay and life’s fleeting nature, such as rotting fruit, musical instruments, watches, hourglasses, and bubbles.

• Supernatural Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

They’re instantly recognizable and used well beyond Western Europe. Among the most renowned celebrations to use skull iconography to pay homage to the dead is Da de Los Muertos in Mexico, or “Day of the Dead.” The skull images of Albrecht Dürer, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso can be seen as important artistic statements from an artistic perspective.

• Daring Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

Our mortality is one of the few things that we as humans are guaranteed in life, and this is a reality that unites us all – however, how one acknowledges this fact is different for every individual. As early as the Middle Ages, human beings reflected on their own mortality as part of a ritual called “memento mori”: a Latin phrase that means to “remember that you must die”. The afterlife is an area of ascetic disciplines – particularly in Christianity – which provides means for turning the attention away from earthly concerns and desires so that one can focus instead on the afterlife. Since ancient cultures explored the concept of memento mori, the visual language of rich symbols has developed throughout history. To convey the persisting nature of time, skulls, flowers, and candles are common elements of this genre. Throughout the exhibition, we will explore different methods in which artists have interpreted death, and how memento mori traditions continue to influence contemporary artists. The awareness of ephemerality arises out of a dialogue that explores life’s ephemeral nature, which heightens appreciation of the present.

• Indicative Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

In Latin, memento mori means “remember you must die.” Because death tends to be unpredictable, memento mori encourages us to live fully without wasting precious time and be prepared for it when it comes. Additionally, it emphasizes the valuelessness of earthly possessions and titles at the time of death.

• Fantastic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

There is, however, more to memento mori than meets the eye. A Journey through the Ancient World on Death in which we meet generals, slaves, philosophers, painters, playwrights, and pharaohs along with The Grim Reaper.

• Legible Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Gravestones and monuments bearing carvings of skulls and skeletons were common in the Middle Ages. In other words, it was a warning to onlookers that they were also going to die. “Memento mori” is the term used to describe these figures.

• Descriptive Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Body

Those who practice death awareness started in ancient Rome, then spread rapidly across western civilization. The book appeared morbid but was highly regarded.

• Active Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

In no way was the Memono more traditions of the Stoa an Early Stoa (from Zeno to Antipater), or Middle Stoa (from Panaetius to Posidonius). Roman Stoic philosophers, who took up the idea of memento mori in Late Stoa, are responsible for it. In the Stoic tradition, memento mori is an insistence on living virtuously, without delay. As prominent teachers, they were enthusiastic practitioners. It was the Stoics’ wish for their followers that each day is viewed as a gift and that they stop wasting time on trivial things. Seeing as death could come at any moment, doing good deeds is a matter of urgency.

• Luxurious Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Ornated

People were urged to separate themselves from worldly riches and recognition by this simple reminder. Their luxury and vanity were described as fleeting. Once death claims a life, these cannot be carried by a person.

• Fashionable Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

Requiem and funeral music was known as memento mori, and it had a long and rich history in early European music. As the 16th century came to an end, jewelry the likes of rings and pendants, pens, belts, skull, and coffin motifs came into fashion.

• Blessed Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

The art genre vanitas, which appeared in the late 15th century and became associated with memento mori, stands out as the one most associated with it. In both cases, they demonstrated vanity (a highly inflated sense of recognition and achievement) and vainglory (a highly inflated sense of pride and vain display), along with their futility at death.

• Popular Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

Memento more, which reminds us of our death’s inevitable consequences, helps us to become fearless in facing them. At the moment we are about to die, we are not overly concerned with the fate of our legacy or the heirs to our possessions. Starting today, let’s cease living for glory or gain, but instead live for goodness.

• Pretty Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

Antiquity was a more violent era, and death was much closer. In times past, tyrannical rulers, diseases, famines, and wars all reminded people that the Grim Reaper waited somewhere around the corner.

• Genuine Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

In memory of death, the Memo Mori practice involves silent pauses during which we remind ourselves, “Memento mori.” This is an acknowledgment of our own mortality, of the briefness of life, and death’s cycle.

• Dramatic Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Looking back at those times, memento mori was cruelly burdensome during their brief lives. Death was necessary for them to erase, even for a short while, as their lives were characterized by a pervasive doom.

• Standard Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

In recent centuries, memento mori has faded from our social consciousness. Our living standards today are much higher than those of those ancient Roman generals. The unpredictable nature of death remains as it was in those days. Still, we find ourselves unprepared for death in these times of modern Covid pandemics.

• Functional Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Neck

The memento mori reminds us that death is the ultimate equalizer. Everybody dies at the end of the day. Our very own experiences of living and dying lead us to suffer and rejoicing in our own special ways. Considering this, what gain are we getting from repeating it to ourselves?

• Creative Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

The following might be a good idea. We cherish those we love more when we remember they will die one day. Our full presence is devoted to embracing them and loving them. Beyond death, whether it be ours or theirs, what remains are those memories.

• Cute Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Chest

The Day of the Dead or D*a de Los Muertos is a celebration dedicated to the dead in D*a de Los Muertos or Mexican culture. A day of celebration, offering prayer and remembrance to the departed is observed by the living on this day.

• Attractive Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Thigh

A festival filled with all colors and patterns you can imagine, with people painting their faces or adorning skull masks with elaborate designs around their eyes and mouths.

• Perfect Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Arm

Rather than mourning the passing of their lost relatives, the families are rejoicing at the news of their death.

• Florid Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Leg

We are celebrating the life that they lived, and giving them a place in our memories to acknowledge their existence and relevance.

• Snakey Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Upper Arm

There are various cultures across the world that treat the departed differently from how most of the world does. Nevertheless, skulls retain a spiritual meaning in their particular context, and in countries like the Philippines, Ireland, Haiti, and India as well

Celebrity with Memento Mori Tattoo Designs

• Memento Mori Tattoo Design On Face

Recently, Lil Xan discussed Mac Miller’s death and the impact it had on his own struggles with sobriety. And now, he seems to have paid tribute to Miller by getting another tattoo on his face. His brand new tattoo reads, “Memento Mori,” which is a Japanese phrase that means “Remember that you will die.” “MOMENTO MORI,” he captioned the post. “Miss you Mac, y’all can start hating me now.”

Xan’s first tattoo drew criticism from fans, and a day later he hopped back onto Instagram to debut a new face tattoo, this time of dripping tears, and turned off the comments so he could say, “I do this for me, I could care less if this makes me ugly because that’s what I was going for, Ugly is the new Beautiful, well not really but there’s some truth to that, I love you guys.”

Memento Mori Tattoo FAQs 

From where did memento mori originate? 

While it isn’t surprising that the concept of memento mori came out of the classic philosophy of Socrates and Plato, it is still an interesting concept. In fact, Plato asserts in his retelling of the death of Socrates that all philosophy is “about nothing but dying and being dead,” an assertion that bears much truth.  

We do not have much time on earth and life is ephemeral. Death provides us with a lens through which we can view our actions and deeds with laser focus. Once we recognize that each moment is rare and unique, each mundane task is given much greater meaning and urgency as we realize that it is slipping away from us forever.  

After the Christianization of ancient Greece, this concept became defined by the importance of humility and service, which were defined by Christ’s teachings. From this source, the majority of memento mori images and designs originate, although this concept is not restricted to Western traditions.  

Lojong is a Tibetan Buddhist meditation exercise based around coming to terms with the finite nature of the body, and the Day of the Dead in Mexico comes from a synthesis of Christianity and pre-contact Native American traditions.  

Although the phrase and its definition date back to the Classical period of Western thought, the almost universal expression of this concept suggests that we must recognize our mortality as distinctly human. The fact that people continue to use art especially tattoos-to create reminders of the fleeting nature of life is no surprise.