Russian Prison Tattoo Meanings: Symbols of Power, Violence, and Defiance

Tiger’s Head

“Cruelty and fury.”
This tattoo is worn by byki and boitsy — men who carry out physical punishments at the order of a thief-in-law (vor v zakone).
Typical placement: chest or shoulder.

Cross with Chain

Tattooed on the upper chest, it indicates faith and belief in one’s fate.
If the cross is shown as a club suit (♣), it means the wearer is a thief (vor).
Typical placement: upper chest.

Eagle Between Two Trees of Different Climate Zones

Symbolizes a traveling thief (vor-gastroler) and an inclination to escape.
The skull in the eagle’s claws represents violence.
Typical placement: varies, often chest or back.

Cat Inside a Compass Rose

“Who is stronger is right.”
“I will be the one who divides.”
Typical placement: beneath the collarbone.

Skull with Bat Wings

A robber–racketeer — tattoo of someone convicted for armed assault or robbery.
Typical placement: beneath the collarbone.

Compass Rose with Barbed Wire

Symbol of a defiant convict (otritsala) — someone who does not recognize the prison code (ponyatiya) and refuses cooperation with the administration.
“Only God can judge me.”
Typical placement: on the knees.