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Tattoo designs - A >> Acorn

Acorn Tattoo Design Meanings - "Mighty oaks from little acorns grow." The acorn has long been valued for its potential strength and virility, and was a widespread symbol of regeneration. From the little acorn springs the mighty oak, prompting various cultures to see in it the qualities of fecundity and patience, and urging those who start small projects to persevere.

The acorn motif is found in ancient statues and carvings -- on Greek statues of Artemis, goddess of the hunt, and on the necklace of her Roman equivalent, Diana. Celtic goddesses also liked the acorn for its association with fertility and immortality.

The oak has long been associated with England, and its fruit, the acorn, frequently showing up in heraldry as a symbol of antiquity and strength. Shown with leaves, the acorn represents new growth and development. Beloved by royalty, the acorn was embroidered into cloth as symbols of fertility and life. Perhaps no one appreciated the acorn more than Charles II, who, after defeat in battle, successfully concealed himself in an oak tree. The ancient Druids believed oak trees were home to fairies, and today the acorn remains a favourite image in woodland tales. If you're an elf, you're probably depicted of wearing an acorn cap.

The oak was so crucial to the construction of the ships of the British Admiralty that numerous laws were enacted to protect oak trees and set aside specific quantities of oak timbers for the exclusive use of the Royal Navy. British Naval power and supremacy on the high seas depended in good part on the stout oak ribs of her warships. "Heart of Oak" is the official march of the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom to this day.

Furniture made of oak is revered for its strength and durability and for the beauty of its grain, which in its natural state is a beautiful blonde but it also takes stains and varnished exceptionally well. Oak floors in a home well a sign of wealth and prosperity. For centuries the acorn has been a popular emblem in carved wood furniture and wall panels. It still appears as a design motif in jewelry, furniture, textiles, and architectural detail, emblematic of strength and endurance.

For the Native American, the acorn was a traditional ration in times of food shortages. In Japan, Korea, and Europe, acorns were soaked to release tannins before being dried and later ground for meal. Legend has it that English drunkards of the 1600s were given the juice from the acorn as a hangover cure, and for strength in resisting drink thereafter.

In tattoo designs, acorns and squirrels are often paired together. A circular charm of oak leaves and acorns recalls an ancient 'emblem of abundance' and is a popular tattoo motif. A pair of acorns may suggest the owner is 'well hung' -- and willing to, either advertise the fact, or perhaps is a bit insecure about it!

Get inspired by some really amazing images and photos of acorns in our Acorn Inspiration Gallery

See also: Tree tattoos, Flower & Plant Tattoo Index

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Tattoo designs - A >> Acorns

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