30+ Best Cobra Tattoo Ideas for Men & Women to Inspire You in 2024
Cobra, the most feared snake with its well-known deadly venom, is a fascinating animal and an incredibly popular subject of tattoo art. Perhaps it’s because of its alluring looks that can easily grab the attention of anyone. Or maybe it’s because of the various meanings that can be associated with Cobras, like wisdom, unpredictability, or the power of intuition. Sometimes, the dangerous Cobra can also represent evil.Â
But before you go and get your own Cobra tattoo, let us help guide you in choosing the perfect piece of ink. Below we’ll show you the most striking, eye-catching, and dazzling Cobra tattoo ideas for 2024. You’ll surely be inspired with the perfect idea of which tattoo style to get, as well as where to get tattooed on your body.
With that said, let’s begin!
Color Tattoo of Cobra and Flowers
This one is located on the client’s top forearm, and we’re happy to create something so vibrant that it’s going to catch all of the attention. In this design, the cobra wriggles through the flowers as if it’s trying to reach the leaves on the upper arm. The outline of one of the flowers is done in bright red instead of black like the rest of the tattoo, to give it a more delightful, interesting look.
IG: panumart_tattoo
Black and Gray Thigh Tattoo of Cobra Wrapping Around Devil’s Head
We want to kick off this list with some pieces from our own studio! Now, this is something that was easily such a joy to make. The cobra coils up around a devil’s head, sitting on top of his skull like a proud crown. The white highlight really adds dimension to the black and gray work, giving it a shiny, eye-catching look with a lot more texture. What do you think of this one?
IG: panumart_tattoo
Blackwork Stomach Tattoo of Cobra
This client has already had some tattoos on her stomach, so the artist probably wanted the cobra to fit right in by using the same art style. I personally really like the linework in this one; do you notice the thinner lines that follow the pattern of the bolder outlines on the cobra’s body? I also love that the branch and the leaves are done with blackout, creating such a nice contrast with the cobra.
IG: panumart_tattoo
Calf Tattoo of Cobra Wrapping Around a Dagger
This tattoo has elements from both new school and neo-traditional styles, with its clean black outlines, brighter colors on the dagger and more earthy tones on the cobra. I really like how the different shades of the same color create dimension in this tattoo, such as green shades on the cobra’s skin or gray tones on the dagger’s edges. For more tattoo pieces of similar style, you can check out the artist’s page right here @moritz_konstantin!
Black and Gray Tattoo of Cobra Head as a Flower Vase
I’m actually quite impressed with the idea and execution of this tattoo. The contrast between the static, motionless vase and the intense movement of the cobra’s head makes it seem like it’s still alive, but trapped inside this piece of decoration. The stipple shading also looks great, making the cobra’s skin realistically rough and satisfying. I also like that the outlines are a little bolder making the composition as a whole better defined.
IG: jessepagetattoo
New School Tattoo of Cobra in Fight
This new school tattoo is the perfect option for anyone who likes their ink piece to be bold and striking. The bold lines, the saturated color palette and the concept align with each other very nicely. I really like how you can tell the cobra’s ready for a fight right off the bat by its glaring eyes, defensive pose and threatening tongue. The replicas of its long red tongue also spring out from its body giving the animal a demonic, intimidating look.
IG: dyemtattoos
Black and Gray Tattoo of Cobra with Colored Leaves
 I adore this piece, and how graceful the aesthetic is. The linework here is so smooth and clean, and the minimal addition of color on the leaves and the cobra’s eyes gives it such a nice touch. The composition of the tattoo also flows really well with the client’s hip and side of thigh, following their shape nicely. Credits go to tattoo artist @maximo.ttt for their wonderful job!
IG: maximo.ttt
New School Tattoo of Coiled Cobra on Hip and Side Thigh
The color, texture and patterns on this cobra’s skin are absolutely to die for. I just adore how all of these elements mesh so well with each other, creating an unquestionably vibrant ink piece that’s made to stand out. Similar to the other one, this tattoo is also placed on the client’s hip down to the side of the thigh. For more impressive new school inspiration, you can visit the artist’s page @michaelrasetti.
IG: michaelrasetti
Minimal Cobra Tattoo on Inner Arm
Not all cobra tattoos have to be huge, in fact, this minimal design looks very good without taking up a lot of space. I like that the skin has the pattern of leopards instead of often-seen snake stripes and dots. The curves of the cobra’s body also flow nicely along the client’s arm, fitting its widest part right where the biceps is. Tattoo artist Ricardo from Brazil excels at minimal tattoos and showcases his delightful collection right here @cadinktattoo!
IG: cadinktattoo
Black and Gray Cobra Tattoo Along the Lower Leg
I must say this tattoo’s placement is my favorite out of all the others on the list. I just really enjoy looking at pieces like this, whose artist was sure to have taken the client’s vision and body into consideration. Do you notice that there is an illusion of the cobra wrapping around the client’s leg, without having the tattoo actually go all the way around? The intentionally inconsistent dotted and shiny skin of the cobra is nicely executed, too. Props to the artist for his great work!
IG: s.mancinotattoo
Old-school inspired Cobra Tattoo Tattoo
Tattoo artist @mayol.tattooer specializes in traditional ink pieces, and this example is from her own Instagram page. Although marked as an old school tattoo, this one incorporates elements that don’t seem to fit into that category, like the thin outlines, or a smooth blend of similar, earthy colors. Its use of red does remind us of the traditional style, though, and that actually stands out. But what matters more than the style category is how beautiful the tattoo looks, and I think the artist did an amazing job! Do you agree?
IG: mayol.tattooer
Black and Gray Tattoo of Cobra and a Rose Branch
This one has a romantic element to it thanks to the presence of a beautiful rose, done in blackwork. The cobra, on the other hand, is executed in black and gray style with black shading and black patterns on its hood. There’s a nice separation in style between these two elements of the tattoo, but they still look interconnected, thanks to their placement. I like how the design flows nicely down the client’s forearm, fitting perfectly in between the existing tattoos. A gorgeous full-sleeve in the making!
IG: 4dan_blk
Traditional Tattoo of Cobra with Machete
This typical traditional style design features bold, clean outlines and a solid color palette. My favorite detail is probably the machete and how its blade goes over the head of the cobra, creating a nice border for the whole composition. The artist, Falk Malisch from Germany, is really passionate about traditional inking, and this piece is one of his hundreds of works. If you’re interested, find out more about his tattoos right here @falkmalisch.
IG: falkmalisch
Realistic Tattoo of Gold-Skinned Cobra as Part of a Full-Sleeve Tattoo
First thing first, what a beautiful shade of yellow the tattoo artist chose for this gorgeous golden cobra. I like how black and light yellow are also incorporated into the texture of its skin, making it so vigorous but still elegant. The pink flowers in the background are done with paler shades and thinner outlines, which helps the cobra stand out even more as the focal point of the design. This is only part of a full-sleeve tattoo, so if you’re curious to see more of it, check out the artist’s page right here. @kenji_shigehara_yktattoo. I promise the back is just as amazing as the front!
Black and Gray Medusa Tattoo on Inner Arm
Those who are into mythology must have thought of Medusa the moment they read the headline of this article. We got you. Here’s a mesmerizing design of Medusa’s hair, filled with glaring snake heads. What I enjoy the most about this design aren’t the cobras, though, but the soulless, empty eyes of Medusa from which black tears are dripping down, symbolized as lines. What’s more, there’s no visible outline of Medusa’s face. The artist really pulled off an eerie feel for this piece!
IG: deborahleall
Black and Gray Tattoo of Cobra and Anthurium Leaves on Upper Arm and Shoulder
If you’re not so much into the image of an intimidating cobra, this one might have the vibe you’re looking for. I really like how relaxed the cobra looks; the surrounding anthurium leaves add to the peaceful feel of the tattoo. This is another example of black and gray pieces that are well-executed and don’t need any color to stand out.
IG: jessepagetattoo
Black and Gray Tattoo of Demonic Cobra on Side of Thigh
This one makes an impression on me right away because of how demonic everything feels. First off, the way the cobra’s body is folded seems so unnatural to me, starting with an odd fold close to the head, down to two infinity shapes at the bottom. The tongue is exceptionally long and thin, and the patterns on its hood just seem like some ancient writing from a spell. One thing’s for sure, the shading, linework and highlighting of this piece are absolutely on point. Only skillful artists can pull off such a demonic look!
IG: dk_blxck
Minimal Blackwork Tattoo of Coiled Cobra on Side of Calf
This is, hands down, among my favorite pieces of the collection. I adore the simplicity of this design; it’s small, done in black and black only, and has minimal patterns. Somehow, it still manages to keep my eyes entertained with its smart use of negative space and solid blackwork. I do wonder how it would heal and hold with time, though, because the spaces between the blocks of black seem quite thin to me. One thing’s for sure though, it’s an absolutely wonderful design.
IG: nem_il
Traditional Style Tattoo of Coiled Cobra on Top of Wrist
The placement of this tattoo sets it apart from all of the others, covering the client’s wrist and hand. I really like how the cobra’s tail runs all the way to the index finger, making the composition more interesting to look at. If you look a bit more closely, you might see that the cobra’s body pierces through what appears to be a broken heart. I wonder if that detail carries a special meaning?
IG: m.fishman_
Traditional Blackwork Tattoo of Killer Cobra and Skulls on Forearm
This traditional tattoo features a cobra alongside its supposed victims, who have all turned into lifeless skulls. I give huge credit to the artist for the originality of this design: the hood of the cobra being an eerie collection of unfortunate dead men. What a creative take! The tattoo artist, Evan, thrives at blackwork tattoos; so if you’re into this style, don’t miss out on his other amazing works @evanaffeldt!
IG: evanaffeldt
New School Tattoo of Cobra and Dagger with Neo Traditional Palette
I love the intensity and the movements packed within this tattoo. The more you look at it, the better it looks. My favorite details are the thin, sketchy lines surrounding the cobra’s body which look like blood springing out from wounds. The shading and highlighting are magnificent, and the position of the tattoo works perfectly with its linear design. This is easily at the top of my favorites list. Props to the artist for his amazing job!
IG: blackkayy
New School Tattoo of Cobra and Dagger with Neo Traditional Palette
Comment: This tattoo is perhaps where new school styling meets neo traditional palette, wouldn’t you agree? Overall, it looks like a really neat, smooth artwork to me. I really like how powerful this cobra looks as if it owns the dagger and has complete control of its surroundings. The yellow-orange circle in the background is a nice touch, balancing the design, and filling up the background space as a focal point. A solid, well-executed piece of art!
Black and Gray Arm Tattoo of Cobra with Two Roses
Tattoo artist Lucas Milk travels the world with his works, and this tattoo is perfect proof of how skilled he is. The details in this design are so neatly done as the tattoo wraps around the client’s arm so nicely. I adore the shading of this piece and how it effortlessly makes the cobra so lively. For more works from Lucas, you can definitely check out his page right here @lucasmilk.
IG: lucasmilk
Old School Tattoo of Cobra Wrapping Around Woman’s Head
What a smart idea behind the design of this tattoo! Do you notice how the cobra coils up as if it’s a part of the woman’s headband? And the colors of its skin also match those of this accessory perfectly. There’s an interesting contrast between how threatening the cobra seems, and the naive, gentle look in the eyes of the beautiful woman. Of course, we can’t forget to mention the typical vibrant color palette of old school style which makes this design a standout.
IG: mendeztattoo
Blackwork Tattoo of Cobra and Vase on Side of Stomach
This tattoo reminds me of the snakes that are attracted to music and rise from their own shelter to follow the sound. The blackwork style works very well with this design, highlighting the alluring patterns both on the vase and on the cobra’s skin. I also like the placement of the piece, right on the client’s right ribs extending down to the side of the stomach. A comfortable space for the tattoo to heal and hold.
IG: nizi_tattoo
Old School Tattoo of Cobra and Two Roses on Side of Thigh
Classic, but never old, the old school style is truly designed to stand the test of time with its bold outlines and vibrant color palette. The idea of a coiled cobra androses is not new, but the execution here is clean and very impressive. It takes a great level of skill to apply such saturated colors and still keep a neat, even look to different sections of the designs. A nice addition to the client’s thigh!
IG: kmacktattoos
Black and Gray Japanese Style Lower-Leg Sleeve of Cobra and Human Head
Here’s another ink piece that features the cobra on top of a human head, but this time with an eerie twist. I’m absolutely impressed by the soulless, terrifying look on the human’s face. The Japanese art style also adds a great classical, mesmerizing touch to this lower-leg sleeve.
IG: toby_jenkins_art
Blackwork Forearm Tattoo of Cobra Floating on Clouds
You’ve seen cobra on the ground surrounded by flowers; this design takes us up among the clouds. I love the smoky, floaty look of the subject, which matches so well with the background. It’s interesting to note that there are three layers of outlines for the cobra, with one layer of white in between two blacks. This creative decision makes the focal point of the tattoo stand out even more and creates an illuminating effect! What a fascinating look.
Traditional Blackwork Tattoo of Cobra’s Head
This traditional ink piece is simple in the best of ways. It only features the upper part of the cobra, sticking out from what looks like just a scratch on the client’s body. The artist uses one shade, black, but still manages to capture our attention with the hypnotic patterns on the cobra’s head. If you like the traditional style of tattoo, colored or not, check out the artist, Jesse’s page right here @j.r.smith____!
IG: j.r.smith____
Black and Gray Hip Tattoo of Cobra with Flowers
Here’s a graceful, feminine option for anyone who’s looking for something subtle. The symmetry in this design gives off a nice sense of balance, while the flowers and leaves create such a lovely, pretty look. Let’s not forget the whip shading that has been so nicely done, and adds so much dimension and movement to the piece. Props to the artist for his great work!
New School Tattoo of Cobra Rising From a Torch
I absolutely adore the imagery of this design. The cobra looks like a flame coming from the torch, with a golden glow surrounding its head like a crown. The color palette, typical for new school pieces, is absolutely eye-catching. A small but really nice detail is the dark shading around the torch which adds more depth and dimension to the design. For more inspirations like this one, you can take a look at this account right here which highlights all sorts of wonderful ink pieces @worldofneotrad.
IG: worldofneotrad
Custom Tattoo of Cobra and Crescent Moon
I find the simplicity of this design absolutely delightful! The artist only uses two colors: black and yellow, but uses them in such an innovative way. I like how the same shade of yellow is used to highlight the snake, fill in the dots on its skin, and depict the crescent moon. The lack of outlines makes the design look very smooth and gentle on the skin, and aligns perfectly with the minimal aesthetic.
IG: muitosnos
Custom Forearm Tattoo of Cobra in Color Block Style
Another example of how tattoos don’t necessarily need outlines to look well-defined. The color blocks define the curves of the cobra so well that no linework is needed to further enhance its shape. The color palette is also brilliant – I like how these neon shades are meshed nicely together, creating a bold, futuristic and stylish look. Tattoo artist Lailla from Brazil does wonderful colored tattoos, and this example really shows her great sense of artistry!
IG: laillatattoo
We hope you found what you were looking for and had as much fun looking at these tattoos as we had writing about them. Until next time, happy inking!
Black and Gray Tattoo of Water Cobra Along Forearm and Arm
Last but not least, this one is a black and gray design of a water cobra. I like how light and graceful the cobra looks, and how there are blurry remains of what could just be old tattoos, but look like pieces of lost belongings under the sea. The tattoo runs from the client’s biceps down to the forearm, fitting in nicely with the existing ones. I hope the client decides to fill in the blank areas to get a unique full-sleeve; that would be so cool!
IG: sudal_blk