Traditional Sacred Heart Tattoo on the Belly

This type of design is a very common reference in traditional tattoos. It’s a “Sacred Heart” inspired by ancient “ex voto,” a gift that people once gave to the deities as a promise or as a thank you for a favor received, an act of gratitude. The Sacred Heart is a very important symbol within the Catholic religion that represents unconditional love, sacrifice, and mercy.

Specifically, this burning heart pierced by a dagger symbolizes something connected to deep love, marked by pain, hence the dagger. It was done by a client who already had other pieces on her front and wanted to add something with a strong meaning to her stomach, below her navel.

The only request was that it be something not too dark but more delicate. So, a black and gray style mixed with dotwork was chosen to achieve softer textures and very fine shading.