40 Awesome Lion Tattoo Ideas for Men & Women in 2024

It’s clear to see we’ve got the Lion King here. Fineline style provides the crown while the decorative Ornamental motif “softens” the design. Overall this is a very pretty, feminine tattoo perfectly centered over the forearm.

IG: prettypat.tats

Fineline style is seen in the beautiful linear lines and circles of this tattoo. The two seem to form something akin to a spiritual staff imparting wisdom to this “all-seeing” lion. The well-demarcated triangular frame showcases the lion and positions it perfectly over the biceps. Simple Sophistication

IG: law_ink

Black ink alone is used in this tattoo. It’s then watered down to create the gray tones which are expertly used for shading. The angular lines of the lion’s face and mane impart a strength to the lion. Positioned right at the wrist, this design could be the perfect ending for a full-sleeve tattoo.

IG: zara__tt_

Watercolor style + Black and Gray style = A marriage made in tattoo heaven. Whether with pastels or black and gray tones, the shading in this tattoo is exquisite. It’s nice how some of the gray shading is carried onto the flowers. Similarly the lion’s blue eye serves to create a harmony, yes a “marriage” between these two different styles.

IG: bobinczi

This must be The Lion King. Great 3D is achieved here with the use of fine lines, contrast and shading. Many tones are used and even white ink to impart the realism. Look at the jewels of the crown and you can see them sparkle. Props to the artist at Bloodline Tattoo out of Chiang Mai, Thailand.

IG: bloodlinechiangmai

I love this tattoo; it’s powerful in a quiet way. With fine lines and soft shading you can feel this Lioness’ embrace of her cub. You can sense the warmth of her body. The barely there shading is a subtle touch that elevates this design to another level. Accented by the negative space around it, this tattoo looks and feels like a dream.

IG: panumart_tattoo

I love this tattoo for so many reasons. First Sketch style is so contemporary and fresh; overlapping lines, incomplete strokes, nothing extra. Then combining it with Watercolor style flowers is so unexpected both style-wise and theme-wise. The upper back provides a perfect frame for the design. Btw when painting or tattooing, Watercolors require genuine skill. Props to the artist.

IG: true.colors.tattoos

You have to admit this is one awesome tattoo. With steady lines, great shading and contrast, dimensionality is created bringing this lion to life. There are so many interesting elements to this design: the clock, the flowers and of course the connection to the half-chest tattoo. The two seamlessly blend and look like they are each part of one larger design. This one is a Head Turner

IG: martinrothe

The mix of three styles works in this design: Fineline, Dotwork and Black and Gray. The dotwork and fine lines above and below the lioness make full use of the canvas provided by the forearm. The curved line design element by the wrist is a pretty added touch.

IG: no87.ink

Of course you’d take a look if you saw a lion walking among the flowers; or inked on a woman’s hip. This one definitely deserves stares. Black and Gray style is beautifully used to outline and shade both the flowers and lion. The location of a tattoo definitely should influence its dimensions. You can see that influence here as the flowers follow the body contours. Very attractive!

IG: liljtattoos

With Watercolor style the colors are dabbed on looking somewhat like splashes or splotches. If not skillfully done the result can literally be a mess. Lucky for this guy that’s not the case here. Gray tones are used to shade and provide contrast for the lion. I really like the heavy bands of black ink suggestive of street art that frame the lion. The right eye, inked in Watercolors and then encircled by black scribbling, is more evidence of this artist’s skill. Awesome

IG: lion.tattoo.idea

A tattoo is not only a way to showcase artwork but also a way to tell a story. And there’s definitely a story behind this custom design. Beyond its intended meaning, really great skill is seen here. Although there are many elements, the overall design looks cohesive and never messy. The amount of detail seen in each of the small planets is amazing. Again if you want something like this make sure the artist has the skills.

IG: topotattoo

If this isn’t the coolest lion half-sleeve tattoo ever, then I don’t know what is.

The detail the artist put into this tattoo is absolutely mind-blowing. Whether it be the black and gray lion or the colorful African sunset, this artist is an absolute master of realistic tattoos.

IG: tattoo.artist.page

The fractalized, repeating geometric pattern of the Mandala serves as a crown for this lion. The Mandala has often been used in Eastern Religions as a tool while meditating. Here it imparts an all-knowing look to the lion. Add to that the skilled shading of the lion and you have one awesome tattoo.

IG: seanrigg

Sitting at the top of the arm, the shoulder perfectly frames this lioness. The heavy black inking around her actually highlights her face and prevents the design from looking too busy. It also adds a sense of movement. Very Nice

IG: sasha_hugo

This tattoo is small but mighty. Just like the lion. The rectangular shaded frame and surrounding negative space elevate the importance of this design and make it pop. With the addition of flowers and the infinity symbol, perhaps it’s saying: “I Am Woman. I Am Forever Strong”.

IG: sierahskyetattoos

Realistic style is often used to depict animals. Here Black and Gray style with its fine lines, contrast and shading is employed to make this lion so realistic. The contrasting shades of gray used for both the lion and flowers provides contrast and prevents the design from being overly busy.

IG: kyla_rose_tattoo

Don’t you think this tattoo is off the charts? The thin black lines and accompanying shading is beautiful. The light emanating from the flowers is created with the use of negative space. This provides contrast between the lion and the flowers and prevents the design from looking messy. Of course a great artist doesn’t forget small touches like the sole leaf falling onto the knee. Nice

IG: tobi_tattoo

Think Watercolors and think of flowers and pretty landscapes. Lions? Not so much. Of course it works in this large thigh tattoo. Watercolor style often involves dabbing colors on in big bold splashes. In the hands of an unskilled painter or tattoo artist the result is often a mess.
Thankfully that’s not the case here, as the lion and the cherry blossoms go very well together.

IG: keroinka_

Blackwork style is often used for large designs which are typically on the arms or legs. Here you can see the characteristic use of heavy sold planes of black ink. The lion’s mane is created by combining these solid planes with adjacent negative space.

IG: lucacece

What better way to showcase that you’re feminine and strong than with this design. This lioness is regally adorned with the ornamental elements of the Mandala – a perfect crown. A dangling jeweled piece is even included; the flower being the perfect finishing touch at the wrist.

IG: razorbaby_ink

Perfectly accented with flowers, this lion gracefully adorns the body. The thin black lines and subtle shading are really beautiful. White ink is then artistically employed to highlight the flowers as well as the lion’s eyes. Not every artist is skilled with white ink so be sure to check their portfolio first. Fortunately Marina Storck out of Guarapari, Brazil has the necessary skills.

IG: marytattooer

These his and hers tattoos are super interesting and will keep you looking for a long time. There are so many elements in each that many conversations are bound to occur. Beyond the symbolism, awesome skill is on display. Be sure to check an artist’s portfolio before commiting to similar designs.

IG: txttooing