The meanings of the skull go beyond the rock, punk or gothic emblem. Today, by style or by fashion, the skull is everywhere and is worn completely uninhibited. If the deterrent and cool characteristics of the skull make it successful, the stories around this part of the skeleton are numerous. Because they have left an indelible mark, recalling its various past allusions allows you to understand your emotional bond for this dark symbol.
The skull throughout civilizations
The cranial symbolism from ancient civilizations still arouses interest and fascination in our current societies. Among them :
The representation of death among the Aztecs
In prehistoric times, the Mayans worshiped their gods, represented by good and evil. The sky and the day symbolize the deities of good. As for the gods of evil, they reflect the underworld. Of the nocturnal deities, that of death was embodied by a skeleton with a frightening skull.
If the skull is a strong symbol of beliefs around the world, it has never been as powerful as during the Calaveras (skull in Spanish) of La Catrina in Mexico. On the Day of the Dead called “El Dia de los Muertos,” locals celebrate life by honoring the deceased. At the center of the processions: dances, meals and festivals color the cemeteries. But nothing beats the faces of the inhabitants wearing skull makeup. A unique ritual that reconciles with the traditional funeral sadness.
At this time and throughout Mexico, uninhibited skulls even emerge among confectioners. Here, no celebration without a meal shared with the deceased... Right at their graves!
Salvation of the soul and Christianity
Some Christian crosses feature a skull and two crossbones at the feet of the crucified Jesus. These bones remind us that the son of God was crucified on Mount Golgotha, also called the Mount of Skulls, the same place where Adam was buried. According to the Bible, this type of skull and crossbones crucifix represents both Adam as the first man and, on a spiritual level, Jesus who died on the cross to wash away the sins of men. The bones of Adam thus remind us that Christ forgives all sins, even original ones.
The skull and crossbones of the military
Since the Middle Ages, the skull has appeared on European armor and military equipment. He announces to the enemy his determination to defeat him, without fearing for his life or that of others. For example, the infamous Totenkopf distinctive badge, worn by the Nazi and Prussian armies.
Bones as valuable jewelry in Africa
Remember African ethnic groups where each native has a piece of bone between their nostrils. Directly pierced through the skin or assembled with others as valuable ornament, the bones are worn like jewelry. Traditionally, the larger the bone, the more respected the tribe member.
Drinking from the enemy's skull among the Vikings
Known for their boorish but courageous side, the Viking people never left a fight without the decapitated head of their opponent. Like a reward, they collected them to pour their drink into. To increase their strength and courage, Celtic warriors toasted in honor of the spirit, power and bravery lodged inside the enemy's skull.
The skull as a punk and rock symbol
We understand that morbid emblems evolve over time and fashion.
But how can we explain the powerful link uniting the skull to the rock world?
The influence of piracy among rebellious spirits
Floating in the air at the top of the mast, the mere sight of the black flag with its skull and shins design was enough to decide many ships to surrender, without even trying to defend themselves.
Repercussion of this image of violent and merciless pirates, bikers are inspired to intimidate road users and impose respect on the asphalt.
On the back, in jewelry or tattooed, the skull acts as a protector against death.
Initially a figure of piracy, the human skull is now used among rockers. Like these buccaneers, they defy the laws and live against the grain of society. True antisocial outsiders, the punk rock style has its place among the clan of skulls . Freedom from the rules, insubordination, disorder and every man for himself... These rebellions resonate like a rock anthem that only a skeletal head can embody.
Decipher cranial representations to better display them
As we saw above, for ancient civilizations, skulls and bones connect the world of the living to that of the immortals. Because, unlike flesh, the skeleton does not decompose. By therefore becoming “eternal”, human and animal skulls are added to the mystical accessories of numerous tribal, occult and esoteric ceremonies and rituals.
It is this aspect of immortality that Goths revere by displaying themselves with skull clothing, accessories and jewelry.
At first glance, the provocative and frightening appearance of the skull sends the man back to his fatal destiny. But not only. It also evokes life, freedom, power, strength, triumph or rebellion... Interpretations inseparable from the movements or groups with which we identify. Among these associations:
- The skull with wings represents the liberation of mortals in spiritual form.
- Crossbones announce eternity, danger and poison.
- A skull and a snake are American symbols illustrating immortality, but also the premonitory power of the reptile.
- Crosses with skulls sum up the beginning of humanity.
Despite the Latin expression “memento mori” translated as “remember that you are going to die”, the man decides to tame the reaper by displaying the skull on all occasions. Although it inspires fear and danger, the drawing of a fleshless skull with both eye sockets has countless religious and ancestral meanings. All deserve to be understood and analyzed before being able to admire and wear the skull at its true value.
Find these allusions in our Jewelry collections and take inspiration from rock legends to find your style.
