Russian Criminal Tattoos: Betrayal, Hatred, and Secret Codes of the Underworld

 Crying Muse

A tattoo symbolizing wandering, unrecognized talent, and disappointment. Also found among women.

 Devil with a Bag

Interpreted as: “There was happiness, but the devil took it away.” The owner of this tattoo usually has extensive criminal experience.

 Devil

This tattoo belongs to the so-called “grins” and represents hatred toward administrative structures. Typically inked on the chest and often accompanied by anti-government slogans.

 Prison Bars, Rose, and Dagger

Indicates that the bearer served time for hooliganism in a reformatory-labor colony. Usually placed on the forearm or shoulder. If the dagger and rose appear without the bars, the meaning shifts to “Blood for betrayal.”

 Naked Woman Tied to a Burning Stake

Translated as “Death for betrayal.” This tattoo indicates that the wearer was convicted of killing a woman. The logs depicted may symbolize the length of the sentence. Tattooed on the chest or thigh.

 Half-Naked Woman in Hussar Dress Sitting on a Cannon with a Torch

Accompanied by the saying: “In this world, two things are beautiful — love and death.” This symbol represents loyalty to a woman and a hidden threat of vengeance for infidelity. Tattooed on the chest or back.