50 Tibetan Skull Tattoo Designs for Men

Referred to as Kapal, the Sanskrit translation of a skull or begging bowl, Tibetan skulls have been used in sacred Hindu and Tantra Buddhist rituals for thousands of years.

The skulls are either employed as halves or in their complete form, and are traditionally retrieved from sky burial sites, in which the dismembered pieces of a deceased person’s body are strewn about to give “aim to the birds” above.

Tibetan skulls carry a deeply poignant meaning, that of the soul’s ascent to another incarnation and cycle of life. The skulls are carefully collected, prepared, and consecrated, with rich jewels, carvings, and metalwork applied as decoration. Tibetan monasteries would then employ the skull as a bowl to hold offerings of wine and cakes to the ruling deities.

Today Tibetan skulls have found their way into the art and styles of popular culture, with many of the world’s most renowned tattoo artists adapting the skulls for stunning ink interpretations. Displayed on whichever part of the body the wearer desires, Tibetan skulls are as striking as they are significant, with the added knowledge of their origins adding richness to the aesthetic. An assortment of colors and designs can be applied to produce a Tibetan skull tattoo that is unique to one’s own intent and purpose, and the rules are only to be guided by love and respect for both the flesh and spirit.

Tibetan skulls are a reminder that what we make of this life will greatly influence the next, that we are here to learn and respect our fellow man, and share our blessings as they are bestowed. The man who dons the Tibetan skull tattoo is not ruled by hate, greed, or easy passion, but compelled to craft his life into a sacred masterpiece.