Rihanna is one of the most celebrated singers and performers of our time. She’s a fashion icon, an entrepreneur, and a trailblazer in the music industry. But one thing that often gets overlooked in discussions about Rihanna is her extensive collection of tattoos.
Rihanna has over 30 tattoos, each with a unique story and meaning. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of Rihanna’s most prominent tattoos and explore the stories behind them.
The Egyptian Goddess Isis Tattoo
One of Rihanna’s most well-known tattoos is the large chest design depicting the ancient Egyptian goddess Isis. Rihanna got the tattoo in honor of her late grandmother, who passed away in 2012. Rihanna has said that her grandmother was a strong, influential figure in her life and that the tattoo serves as a reminder of her legacy.
The Shhh Tattoo
Located on Rihanna’s index finger, the “shhh” tattoo is one of her most iconic designs. The simple, minimalist tattoo symbolizes Rihanna’s desire to keep certain aspects of her life private. In interviews, Rihanna has said that the tattoo serves as a reminder to stay true to herself and not to let outside forces influence her decisions.
The Maori Tattoo
Rihanna’s hand tattoo is inspired by traditional Maori tribal tattoos, typically characterized by intricate, geometric designs. The tattoo was done using a traditional hand-tapping method, using a small wooden tool to puncture the skin. Rihanna has said that the tattoo is a tribute to her heritage and a symbol of her connection to her ancestral roots.
The Sanskrit Prayer Tattoo
Located on her hip, Rihanna’s Sanskrit prayer tattoo is a tribute to her spirituality. The tattoo features the phrase “forgiveness, honesty, suppression, and control” written in Sanskrit, a sacred language of Hinduism. Rihanna has said that the tattoo represents her commitment to living a life of balance and mindfulness.
The Rebelle Fleur Tattoo
One of Rihanna’s most recognizable tattoos is her neck’s “Rebelle Fleur” design. The tattoo combined the French words for rebel and flower and was chosen by Rihanna to represent her rebellious spirit and feminine energy. The design was created by the artist Bang Bang, who has also done tattoos for other celebrities like Justin Bieber and Cara Delevingne.
The Henna-Inspired Hand Tattoo
Rihanna’s henna-inspired hand tattoo is a striking design that features intricate patterns and bold lines. The tattoo was done using a technique called Jagua, which uses a natural dye made from the Jagua fruit. Rihanna has said that the tattoo is a nod to her love of Middle Eastern culture and a reminder of her travels throughout the region.
The Gun Tattoo
One of Rihanna’s most controversial tattoos is the small gun design on her ribcage. The tattoo has been the subject of much debate, with some critics arguing that it glorifies gun violence. However, Rihanna has defended the tattoo, stating that it symbolizes her power and independence.
