Galdrastafir and Runic Tattoos
Vegvisir | Lukkustafir | Aegishjalmur | Runes | Bindrunes
Foreword:
If you have any questions or want the latest information just ask me - I’ll answer as soon as possible.
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While research into Galdrastafir (staves), runes and related subjects takes up most of my time, I support myself through the sale of graphic designs based on my research. The designs are either a remaster of original manuscript staves or else custom "new" staves created by me for individuals seeking them and these are primarily used for tattoos, i.e. a stencil the tattooist can copy onto skin.
You can order many "off the shelf" popular staves at a very low price on my Shop page. Or if you want something unique or special, write to me and we can work together on it.
Galdrastafir is very much an Icelandic tradition from the early modern European era. There was not any tradition of tattooing there, however that probably has more to do with resources; Icelanders did not have access to needles or ink to make tattoos. HOWEVER... Galdrastafir were frequently made with blood and sacrifice, often directly on the users on skin or at least with the intention to be carried always with them. This certainly applies to both Vegvísir and Ægishjálmur. In addition, my research shows that the application of these staves was flexible rather than strict and often were adapted to local conditions and beliefs. In other words, getting these made as tattoos is in keeping with both early and modern traditions.
Vegvísir Tattoos:
| Path Guide - carry this sign with you and you won’t get lost in storms or bad weather, even though in unfamiliar surrounds. | |||
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| Edgar P. Sydney, Australia |
Amber W. Oregon, USA |
Robert S. California, USA |
Sarah U. New York, USA |
Ægishjálmur Tattoos:
| Helm of Awe: - for victory over one’s enemies, defence against wrathful rulers, calming of anger, protection of cattle or to get a favoured girl. | |||
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| Galdrakver: Lbs 143 8vo | midwintercrone, on Instagram | Rahoorkhuit? | by Wez of Bluebird |
Veldismagn Tattoos:
Power Enhancer - so nothing evil will harm you, and whole and healthy will you come home, whether traveling by sea or land. |
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| Einkaeign Stafabók Iceland, 1928 |
Stéphanie F Paris, France |
Jessica Garbutt Canada |
LaMaga Tattoo Art Italy |
Hulinhjálmur / Hulinshjálmur Tattoos:
The Concealing Helm - this stave can make you disappear when you so wish. Hulda and hulin is derived from the Old Norse meaning |
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| From Lbs 4375 copied from 1676 |
Neil E New Zealand |
Max B. Munich, Germany |
Fabian D. C. Germany |
Other Tattoos:
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| Draumstafir Griffin, US |
Ottastafur Fred Apotropaeos |
Vatnahlifir Sara Abeiramar |
Sator Arepo Square Cristina, Italy |