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ᛏᚨᛏᛏᛟᛟ · Vegvisir
The Vegvisir ("way-shower") is known from the Huld manuscript, a collection of Icelandic magic compiled by Geir Vigfússon in 1860. The accompanying text says that whoever carries the sign will not lose their way in storms or bad weather, even when the way is unknown.
It belongs to a rich Icelandic tradition of galdrastafir, magical staves drawn for protection, luck and safe travel. No Vegvisir has been found on any Viking Age object, and the nickname "Viking compass" is modern. It became widely known in the last few decades, and today it is one of the most popular Norse tattoo designs in the world.
Guidance, finding your way home, and safe passage through hard times. Many people choose it after a big life change, a move abroad or a period of feeling lost.
Good to know
The Vegvisir has many fine lines and small end-marks. Tattooed very small, they can blur together over time, so ask your artist about a sensible minimum size.
Rune Library
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The Mjölnir Collection: two original Runestone Norway tattoo designs, the Vegvisir and Yggdrasil woven into Thor's hammer. Vector stencils ready for your tattoo artist, with the real history of each symbol. Instant download.
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Not from the Viking Age. It comes from an Icelandic manuscript compiled in 1860, so it is a genuine Icelandic magical stave from a much later period.
Guidance and finding your way. The manuscript says its bearer will not lose their way in storms or bad weather.
Popular places are the forearm, upper back, chest and calf: anywhere with enough flat space for the fine lines to stay clear.