This Harpy tattoo is a great example of an illustrative styled tattoo.
The client wanted a mythological Harpy tattoo in full color.
This was a challenging project as we needed to cover a few surgical scars.
The color scheme was specific to an anime character from the clients reference.
Looking for your own Harpy tattoo or a mythology type design?
Go to our Tattoo Request Form to get your tattoo project started!
The History of the harpy
A harpy is a mythical creature with the head of a woman and the body of a bird.
They are common in greek mythology.
They are often depicted as winged spirits or wind spirits associated with sudden and swift storms.
Consequently, the harpies are generally described as swift and elusive.
Also, they are sometimes considered to be agents of divine punishment.
Harpies are portrayed with the upper body of a woman, including a human head and arms.
In addition, the lower body of a bird, with wings and talons.
Their avian features often include large wings and sharp claws.
Harpies are often associated with the wind and storms.
Therefore, they are considered to be messengers of the gods and are sometimes sent to carry out punishments.
There are three prominent harpies named Aello, Celaeno, and Ocypete in Greek mythology.
Harpies are often described as the daughters of the sea god Thaumas and the Oceanid Electra.
Harpies appear in various myths and stories.
As a result, one notable mention is in the story of Jason and the Argonauts.
The harpies were sent to torment the blind seer Phineas, and the Argonauts encountered them during their journey.
Harpies are sometimes seen as symbols of chaos and disorder.
For example, they are associated with sudden, destructive forces, particularly in the form of storms.
The depiction of harpies may vary across different sources and interpretations of Greek mythology.
Their role and characteristics are often shaped by the specific myth or story in which they appear.
About the Harpy tattoo
They unexpectedly attacked their victims and suddenly disappeared, like a whirlwind.
Due to this suddenness, harpies are considered virtuosos of sudden death.
The faces of the mythical half-birds half-women are always pale.
This is because of the hunger that always torments them.
Likewise, this could explain their gluttony and greediness.
The word ‘harpy’ itself means ‘grab’, ‘abduct’.
In conclusion, here are a few details associated with the Harpy.
- The personification of greediness, avarice. In this case, the Harpy is depicted sitting on a bag of gold (money).
- Black Angel of sudden death
- The kidnapper of human souls
- Distribution of uncleanliness and stench
- Glutinousness, the desire to take away food from others (a piece of bread)