Here are a selection of designs by Prince Vallar, Stephen and Bert. These have been re-drawn in their true form and are shown in black and white to try and recapture the sketch-like way in which they were executed.
The Scottish Dancer
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The Scottish dancer was a very popular tattoo. Like all their designs this was tattooed freehand. Note the shape and proportion of the female. There is detailed work in the tartan skirt and bonnet. |
True Till Death
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This design may have originated in the USA where it was very popular during wartime. Many American sailors were stationed in Scotland during WWII and I beleive that Prince would have drawn his own version of this design having seen it on the arm of a visiting sailor. |
Hands and Heart
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The Vallars must have tattooed this design thousands of times over the years. They always made a great job of the hands and the sleeves of both arms were always the same. Lettering above this design was optional as were the three stars. |
Sailing Ship with Hands
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Hands across the oceans is the generic name for this design. It was popular with sailors the world over and has been represented in many forms throughout time. Vallar's version had fantastic detail on the ropes, rigging and sails as well as nice work in the laurel leaf. The hands are the same as the above design and were used in all their designs the same way - seldom altered. |
Snake & Sword
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This design is also a very common example of Vallar's work that can still be seen today. Thousands of men opted for this design and I have seen it personally many times. It varies in size but is always the same design when viewed. This substantiates the fact that all of the Vallars drew freehand and could reproduce each design in any size to suit the wearer's arm. |
Erin Go Bragh
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Glasgow had thousands of Irish immigrants (including Prince Vallar) and this harp and shamrock design was one that would remind a young Irish lad of the 'old country' back home. Once again I have seen this reproduced in various sizes. The lettering translates as 'Ireland For Ever'. |
Swallow and Ribbon
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At one time this was the staple diet of any busy tattoo shop. Nowadays it's all tribal, portrait and Celtic work! This simple design would be tattooed many times in one week. |
Naked woman and Snake
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I've only ever seen this design once. It was sent to the gallery by its wearer, Angus Ross. |
