Pelican Tattoo Ideas, Designs and Meaning

Historically, the pelican has been a symbol of charity and sacrifice, particularly in medieval Europe where it was often depicted in religious art. The belief that pelicans would wound themselves to feed their young was a powerful metaphor for self-sacrifice and was used to illustrate the virtues of charity and parental care. This imagery was prevalent in Christian iconography, where the pelican became a symbol of Christ's sacrifice. The pelican's historical significance extends to various cultures, where it has been revered as a symbol of protection and guidance, often appearing in myths and folklore.