The idea of a snake eating its own tail is a powerful vibe, representing the endless cycle of life. Getting an Ouroboros tattoo is definitely a bold move and, I get it, not for everyone.
But if you’re here, it means you’re ready for some seriously cool body art inspiration. I’ve rounded up some amazing Ouroboros illustrations that are guaranteed to give you chills in the best way.
You’re going to love these!
50 Spooky Ouroboros Tattoo Designs
1. Full-metal Alchemist Ouroboros Tattoo Design
If you’re a fan of the Japanese manga series Fullmetal Alchemist, this one is for you. Seriously, what a perfect way to show your love for the series!
This design is so unique and looks totally different from the other Ouroboros tattoos I’ve seen. The artist used a dark black ink for the outline and then placed a distinctive star motif inside for a look that is seriously fan-approved.
2. Ouroboros Tattoo Design on Neck
I’m obsessed with this one because it almost looks like a piece of ornamental jewelry. If you’re going for a creepy vibe or just want your tattoo to be a total showstopper, this design is your go-to.
The placement on the neck is guaranteed to grab everyone’s attention. Plus, the shading work on the snake just adds so much allure.
3. Minimalistic Ouroboros Tattoo Design
This is such an artistic take on the Ouroboros tattoo. For those who are looking for something delicate but still super expressive, this is the perfect piece.
The tattoo artist created this gorgeous golden snake in a circle on the back, with its tail tucked inside its mouth. The beautiful depiction and the subtle shading on the snake’s skin create a design that’s sure to have people asking where you got it.
4. Colorful Ouroboros Tattoo Design
Okay, so most Ouroboros designs stick to black, grey, or light shades, but this one is a complete game changer. I love it! The artist drew a snake with a super angry expression, all set to eat its tail.
The pops of red and blue on its skin make it so interesting to look at. You can also see that some parts of the snake have withered skin while other areas are just skeleton.
5. Large serpent Ouroboros Tattoo Design
If you’re searching for an Ouroboros tattoo that’s both scary and spooky, look no further. This is it. The tattoo features a huge snake taking its own tail into its mouth.
The unique pattern on its skin, paired with a golden abstract element, makes this design a total focal point. I also love that the artist made the snake’s sharp teeth really prominent to give it a super angry look.
6. Ouroboros Tattoo Design with a Burning Dagger
Sometimes you want more than just one symbolic element in your ink, and this design is such a great pick for that. The artist combined an Ouroboros with a dagger that’s burning at the top.
The linear details that run across the dagger bring so much personality to this design, it’s bound to be the center of attention. Also, the symmetrical pattern on the snake’s skin totally elevates the whole look.
7. Circled Ouroboros Tattoo Design
There’s just something about this tattoo that feels out of this world, especially with the evil eye right in the middle. The artist inked a dark black snake circling around the eye, which is more lightly shaded.
I love the contrast. You can see the snake with its wide-open mouth, pulling its tail in, giving the whole piece a really scary look. But the little bit of floral art inside the circle adds a peaceful touch.
8. Ouroboros Tattoo Design with Medusa Vibes
This design is absolutely spectacular, featuring a stunning illustration of the Greek mythological character Medusa. A woman is placed in the center with a serpent wrapped all around her face.
The snake is holding its own tail in its mouth, making it a perfect Ouroboros piece. The best part has to be the shaded work on the woman’s face, which really makes her eyes pop and become the major focus of the tattoo.
9. Geometrical Ouroboros Tattoo Design on the Back
Anyone who loves geometrical designs can get behind this wonderful Ouroboros tattoo. The artist made a circle on the back and filled it with these really alluring geometric patterns.
The intermingling lines inside and the snake about to take its tail in its mouth complete this mesmerizing piece. The watercolor illustration surrounding the Ouroboros is seriously increasing the oomph factor.
10. Ouroboros Tattoo Design with Skeleton Art
Placed on the arm right below the elbow, this design is truly one of a kind. The artist created an encircled snake where one half of its body has skin and the other half is just bones.
It has a super scary feel that is sure to give you goosebumps. This is such a classic Ouroboros concept, and you could get it inked on any part of your body.