Games of chance are as old as humanity itself and are played around the world in just about every culture on the planet. Seeing that—for whatever reason—humans seem to be instinctively drawn to the risk inherent in these games, it is no wonder that they would make their way into the world of tattoos. Playing cards specifically are great subject matter for tattoos thanks to the artistry and diverse images that have been used to decorate these timeless game pieces.
For some, these tattoos can put the wearer’s love of playing these games on full display, letting everyone know they are a person that doesn’t shy away from risk. Other people wear these designs on their bodies to honor the philosophical meaning associated with gambling and the inherent risk of life in general. “Life is a risk” or “life is a game” are common phrases found accompanying these tattoos and they represent the role that accepting risk and taking chances plays in everyday life, whether we are aware of it or not. Whether you are a cardsharp or not, these designs offer a broad and interesting subject matter for tattoos.