To differentiate between an Asian and an African elephant, take a look at their head shape, ears, and tusks. Regardless of gender, African elephants have large ears, tusks, and rounded heads. Asian elephants, on the other hand, have smaller ears, only the males possess the capacity to grow tusks, and their heads appear to have two rounded domes separated by a center ridge.
Elephant tattoo symbolism varies between these species. Asian cultures, political parties, and religions revere elephants as symbols of intelligence, regality, and spirituality. African elephants, while still considered symbols of great status, are more often revered for their perseverance and fortitude. Ancient North African cultures used elephants during wartime, though this practice waned with the introduction of gunpowder and firearm warfare. Today, many African nations use elephant imagery to symbolize power and strength.
The orientation of the elephant tattoo is also important. The practice of Feng Shui generally considers upward-facing trunks to represent fortune, prosperity, and social connection. Thus, an elephant tattoo with an upward trunk can symbolize good luck, forward-thinking, and success. Vastu Shastra, an Indian architecutural system similar to Feng Shui considers downward-facing trunks to be a symbol of fertility and accumulated energy. Tattoos with downward trunks can be a powerful symbol for a mother or someone who prides themselves in pushing through challenges.
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