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Saturday, August 28, 2010
Rumble In The Jungle: The A to Z of Animal Tees
What's your favourite animal?
Most of us will have an answer to that question which means that there is never a shortage of designers putting animals on tees, nor consumers who want to buy animal stuff. You hear people ask if the t-shirt marketplace is becoming oversaturated with choice. In the case of animal themed t-shirts, I don't think there can ever be too many!
When thinking about this animal themed post, I thought it could be fun to look at an A - Z of animals on tees, whilst taking a look at symbolism and the various qualities that certain animals represent. I hope it serves as a source of enlightenment and inspiration because, after all, knowledge is power and if we can understand the reasons people want to buy a certain animal on a tee, then we could also discover marketing angles.
I haven't included everything there is to know about each animal, as that would make this post as humungous as a woolly mammoth! However, I have included a number of links at the bottom where my information was collected from in case you wish to read more.
Many animals didn't make the list, and I took license in allocating letters to some that readers may question. Please don't shoot the author... it's not hunting season! Rather, leave a comment telling us all about YOUR animal themed t-shirt/s.
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A - Arachnid
Arachnophobia, or the fear of spiders, is one of the most common phobias. Spiders have been the focus of fears, stories and mythologies in various cultures for centuries and in some criminal societies the spider was used to express commitment to that life. With this negativity also comes creativity, and spiders are considered one of the most creative insects on the planet - symbolic of an ability to excrete one's own artistic world.
Arachnid T-Shirts by (L to R): Russian Criminal Tattoo Designs (@RussCrmnlTattoo); Cool Bug Stuff; and Psychosis: Urban Lifestyle Apparel (@psychosisgear).
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B - Bear
Symbolic of Introspection, Primal Power/Strength, and Awakening Unconscious. To European and Native American Shamanic people, this power animal symbolises awakening the strong force of the unconscious, with the bear totem symbolising determination for the Shaman who would commune with the spiritual world. In a loving environment, this animal symbol showers love and generosity in return.
Bear T-Shirts by (L to R): Wildlife Ink; AAA Native Arts Gallery (@aaanativearts); and Matthew Parsons (Facebook Page).
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C - Crow
Most European traditions view the crow as a sign of bad omens, problems and death. The crow is known to represent the darker elements of human nature. One theory is that negative raven symbolism arose from their appearance on battlefields, and in Norse mythology (primarily the mythology of Scandinavia), Odin - the god of wisdom, war, art, culture and the dead - would have Huginn and Muninn (a pair of ravens) fly all over the world and report back with information.
Crow T-Shirts by (L to R): Darkside (@Darkside_UK); I Love Waterloo (@ILoveWaterloo); and Selene Dracourge - Shadow Magi Group (Facebook Page).
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D - Dog
Dogs are symbols of courage, vigilance, loyal fidelity and are emblems of faithfulness and guardianship. In Celtic symbolism, the dog is considered good luck and because a Celt was rarely found hunting without a hound nearby, the dog became a symbol of a skilled hunter. Dogs are also the archetypal symbols of shapeshifters, and under the Chinese zodiac, the dog represents persistence in adversity, sensitivity, honesty, reliability, watchfulness and/or a nosy nature.
Dog T-Shirts by (L to R): Busted Tees (@BustedTees); MiNGLED (@MiNGLED); and Outdoor Addix (Facebook Group).
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E - Elephant
The elephant can be seen in symbolism across many cultures. A symbol of strength and power, the elephant was the mount of Kings of India and as a devastating weapon of war, came to symbolise the gods of warriors. The Chinese also see the elephant as a symbol of energy, strength and power, whereas Buddhist cultures see white elephants as a symbol of patience and wisdom. To others this animal represents commitment, gentleness and communication in relationships.
Elephant T-Shirts by (L to R): Matthew Dunn Art (@matthewdunnart); The Spotted Olive (@TheSpottedOlive); and Anita Inverarity (@AnitaArt).
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F - Feline
The cat is the Pagan Symbol of the Arcane and is said to have exhibited psychic ability. Folk lore connects the cat to many bad luck stories and symbolic meanings range from a devil to a god. In Western traditions it's the cats association with the night which has connected it to mystery, witchcraft and magic. Their connection to the moon can also be seen in ancient Egyptian symbolism where the cat was sacred and depicted on the head of their lunar goddess Bastet. The cat is also symbolic of independence, balance and wisdom.
Feline (Cat) T-Shirts by (L to R): Obey The Purebreed (Facebook Page); Paws and Effect (Facebook Page); and Kelly Cavender (@KCavenderDesign).
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G - Goat
Babylonians gave us the symbol of Capricorn (the sea goat) and having seen the goat primarily climbing the mountains, it became a symbol of man striving to reach God. Today the zodiac sign symbolizes character traits such as creativity, intelligence, dependability, and calmness. The goat can be a symbol of practical wisdom and an emblem of a man who wins victories through diplomatic means. That said, it also represents stubbornness and a wild nature along with masculinity and sexuality.
Goat T-Shirts by (L to R): Get Yer Goat; bEDOsHIRTS (@bedoshirts); and Peacockcards (@peacockcards).
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H - Horse
The horse represents numerous traits - Stamina, mobility, strength and travel; Love, devotion, and loyalty; Intellect, wisdom, power and nobility - among many others. The winged horse is viewed as a symbol of "the soul able to fly beyond the realm of physical life" and a symbol of "high-flying imagination". As one of the most honoured Celtic animal symbols, the horse is associated with war, as well as the night, the moon, mystery and belonging to the sun god.
Horse T-Shirts by (L to R): Zen Threads (@ZenThreads); Saga Shirts; and Jolly Amusing.
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I - Iguana (representing the Lizard Family)
The Iguana is part of the lizard family and represents conservation, agility and is about and promotes dreaming. In the dreaming realm, it can mean the power of observation or perceptiveness. Dreaming of this animal can represent having too much of these qualities, or not enough. As a reptile, this animal totem represents adaptation. The Mayan's considered the iguana sacred, and in ancient Egypt and Greek symbolism the lizard represented divine wisdom and good fortune.
Iguana T-Shirts by (L to R): Tropicando (@Tropicando); Art Box; and Tee Party.
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J - Jackal
Anubis, the god of mummification, is depicted in Egyptian mythology as a man with the head of a jackal. Anubis was worshipped as the inventor of embalming, and considered the 'guide of souls' with the connection to the jackal coming from the Egyptians' observations at cemetaries - where jackals would lurk around tombs and graves. As a scavenger animal, the jackal is reknowned for cleverness and can therefore symbolise a devious or mischevious person.
Jackal T-Shirts by (L to R): Heather Bruton; Cisnenegro (@cisnenegro); and The Anubis Shop.
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K - Kangaroo
The kangaroo is a national symbol of Australia, used on the Australian coat of arms and some currency, and is thus associated with the country and culture in several ways. This Australian marsupial hails from the Macropodidae family - with macropods meaning "large foot". As a power animal it symbolises balance and strength and in dreams it foretells unexpected and exciting trips. Incidentally, a group of kangaroos is called a "mob" (although they are not known for contract killings).
Kangaroo T-Shirts by (L to R): Rick London (@ricklondon); Colin Tobin (@ColinTobin); and Rotem Gear (@rotemgear).
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L - Llama
Llamas played an important role in Inca culture and were a primary source of transportation, clothing and food. Inca religion, based on the worship of nature gods (sun, moon, rain, mountains), involved sacrificing 100 llamas on the first day of every lunar month. The animal thus became an important symbol with nobility often buried with llama figures. Today the llama is still a vast resource for Peru and can be seen on the Peruvian flag. As a symbol of endurance, the llama can also represent standing up for one's self.
Llama T-Shirts by (L to R): MongoWear (Facebook Page); Alisa Christopher (@alisatana); and Signs of Life.
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M - Monkey
Under the Chinese horoscope, the monkey is regarded as quick/keen of wit, highly observant, and curious. To others it can represent mischief, benevolence or humanity. The monkey can symbolise agility and playfulness and where some cultures consider monkeys to be devilish, others embrace this playfulness and their imagination. The "See no evil, Hear no evil, Speak no evil" totem (see below) teaches us not to rely on sight, sound, and speech for truth, but to develop our sixth sense of knowing.
Monkey T-Shirts by (L to R): 8 Ball T-Shirts (@8balltshirts); Omunky (@OMUNKY); and BluAlien.
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N - Narwhal
Sometimes called sea unicorns, Narwhal sightings reinforced the unicorn legends. Like the mythical unicorn, males are known for their long, spiral, ivory tusks. In the Middle Ages, these tusks were thought to possess magical and curative properties. The Narwhal can symbolise the nourishing of others, wisdom and a deep comprehension of issues. They are connected to themes of coldness, resisting captivity, pursuit of freedom, the body as a weapon, and "poking holes" in the theories of others.
Narwhal T-Shirts by (L to R): Squid Ink (@squidinkie); Brian Walline (@Zoodio27); and Tinaseamonster (@tinaseamonster).
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O - Owl
The owl is deeply associated with magic and is said to bring us wisdom. To the ancient Greeks, the owl is a symbol of Athene, the goddess of foresight and knowledge. As a nocturnal creature, it is symbolic of psychic ability and intuition. Native American tribes viewed the owl as a protector against harm, whereas in other cultures (China, Egypt, India) the symbolic meaning of the owl is associated with death - as in, the guardian of the after-life.
Owl T-Shirts by (L to R): Pandora Apparel (@PandoraApparel); LadyUmbrella (@ladyumbrellaltd); and Death & Taxes Designworks.
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P - Pig
The pig has become synonymous with several negative attributes, especially greed and gluttony. In Buddhism, the pig usually represents desire in all its forms and attachment to material possessions. However, in Celtic and ancient Egyptian cultures, pigs are icons of abundance and fertility. In the Chinese tradition, it can also mean abundance and one who is easily angered, and in the case of the Chinese zodiac, it is considered a symbol of honesty and determination. "When pigs fly" is a phrase used to scoff at over-ambition.
Pig T-Shirts by (L to R): Busto The Pig (Facebook Page); Baby Talk Clothing; and AnimePeggy (@AnimePeggy).
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Q - Quetzalcoatl
The Aztec culture had complex mythology and this is where we find Quetzalcoatl - an Aztec god also known as the "Feathered Serpent." It brings together the green-plumed quetzal bird (symbolizing the heavens and the wind), and the snake (symbolizing the earth and fertility). Quetzalcoatl represents life, motion, laughter, health, sexuality, and the arts and crafts of civilization such as farming, cooking, and music.
Quetzalcoatl T-Shirts by (L to R): Ariadna Corona (@Arikodi); Art Attack; and siXsiXsiX.
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R - Rabbit
The rabbit often appears in folklore as the trickster archetype, using his cunning to outwit his enemies. The rabbit is also viewed as a symbol of love, fertility and vigilance. Additionally, the rabbit is used as a symbol of playful sexuality which relates to its reputation as a prolific breeder. As a symbol of rebirth, the rabbit has an association with spring and Easter. The species' role as a prey animal also lends itself as a symbol of innocence - another Easter connotation.
Rabbit T-Shirts by (L to R): Susan Sanford; Detour Designables (@detourshirts); and Design Bakery (@Design_Bakery).
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S - Sasquatch
Sasquatch is the English word for "Sésquac", meaning "wild man". Colloquially known as "Bigfoot", the Sasquatch is a legendary primate-like creature that some believe is a real hominid living in America. Sasquatch lore dates back to early Native American tribes and whilst reknowned for harrassment of humans, the entire body of reports suggest that the Sasquatch is not a violent creature. On the contrary, the Sasquatch can represent imagination and has become a symbol of what might exist and what is waiting to be discovered.
Sasquatch T-Shirts by (L to R): GritFX T-Shirts (@GritFX); Brian Brasher (@etherbrian); and W + K Studio.
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T - Tiger
In Japan, the tiger is the emblem of the great warriors known as the samurai. In this case, the tiger represents courage. The Chinese consider the tiger the king of all beasts. This title came from recognising that the stripes along the forehead resembled the Chinese character of "King". It reminds us of the impossible, triumphs, the beauty of freedom and is a symbol of reverence. As a zodiac sign it represents rebellion, power, passion, a daring nature, and vigor. The tiger can also represent a colourful personality.
Tiger T-Shirts by (L to R): Rotem Gear (@rotemgear); Nature Wear; and Joshua Robin Kaplan.
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U - Unicorn
Unicorn symbolism can be seen in various religions and cultures, from biblical references to the Royal coat-of-arms of the United Kingdom; where, united with the lion, the unicorn symbolised a new order supported by the balancing forces of nature - sun and moon in harmony. The unicorn is a symbol of truth, dreams, purity, magic, and freedom; when seen chained, it illustrates man's fear that a free unicorn (or free mind) is a dangerous beast. The unicorn can also represent one who is fierce yet good, selfless yet solitary.
Unicorn T-Shirts by (L to R): Crazy Dog T-Shirts (@crazydogtshirts); Snorg Tees (@Snorgtees); and Soge Shirts (@sogeshirts).
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V - Viper
The viper (snake) can symbolise shedding the past and changing the future. As a complex Celtic animal symbol it represents the process of creation, rebirth, fertility and healing. Along with transformation, the Celtic perspective also shows the snake as a symbol of secret knowledge and cunning. The snake swallowing it's tail is a symbol for eternity. Double snakes are common symbols in many cultures, respresenting the integration of opposites and advanced communication.
Viper T-Shirts by (L to R): Melhi (@melhi); Oliver Hibert - LTD Tee (@LTDTee); and Fly53 (@FLY53).
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W - Wolf
The wolf is seen as a symbol of great respect/honor as well as hatred/persecution. Fear of wolves is accepted as a natural human reaction, with the wolf depicted as evil in the folklore of medieval Europe. The "Big Bad Wolf" and the werewolf are symbols of this fear, whereas to Native American tribes, the wolf was the PathFinder/Teacher which came from an admiration of their intelligence, courage and strength. In Norse mythology, the wolf is a symbol for victory; as a Celtic symbol, it is a source of lunar power. The wolf can also represent free will.
Wolf T-Shirts by (L to R): Wolves VS Lions (@WolvesVsLions); Nerdy Shirts (@nerdyshirts); and Yehteh (@yehteh).
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X - Xenomorph
In pop culture, xenomorph is well known as a reference to the film Aliens, being the name given to the bad-ass extraterrestrial creatures in the movie. The word 'xenomorph' was invented to mean "a strange form", derived from the prefix "xeno-" (meaning 'strange/alien/foreign') and the suffix "-morph" (meaning 'form'). As such, the word is primarily connected to monsters . Dream translations are relatively linear, with the presence of a xenomorph in your dream (or, more likely, nightmare) meaning you may be in an 'alien' situation.
Xenomorph (Alien) T-Shirts by (L to R): Headline Shirts (@headlineshirts); RoadKill T-Shirts (@roadkilltshirts); and Split Reason (@splitreason_com).
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Y - Yak
Centuries ago, a great trans-Himalayan trade existed between Nepal and its neighbour Tibet. The large (standing up to 7.2ft tall at the shoulder) wild Ox of Tibet was the primary source of transportation during this time. Also used to plough fields, provide meat, milk, butter, wool and dung for fuel, the the wild Ox (Yak) provided for all the needs of the Tibetans and Nepalese and came to represent the 'all-good', with nomads calling them "wish-granting". The Yak can also symbolise one who is reliable and persistent, or one who is self-protective and disagreeable.
Yak T-Shirts by (L to R): Jeremy Fish - Superfishal; endemicworld (@endemicworld); and MakaluWear (Facebook Page).
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Z - Zebra
The Zebra teaches us the beauty in individuality. It's distinctive stripes serves as a protective camouflage against predators, who are often unable to pick an individual out from the herd. However, for herd members the stripes have the opposite purpose as each has a unique pattern. The zebra is therefore often used to represent how we too can develop our individuality within a group dynamic. A third spiritual meaning for the stripes is related to the integration of opposites.
Zebra T-Shirts by (L to R): Tat2 T's (@tat2ts); Per Ove Sleen (@POSn); and Olechka Art (@OlechkaArt).
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I can not conclude this post without a special thank you to some of my peers whom answered the call for help on twitter... thank you to Jean Roth of Rotem Gear (@rotemgear); Brad Kelly of the T-Shirt Review Blog (@tshirtreview); Kelly Murphy of Saucewear (@saucewear) & The Tee Gazette (@TeeGazette); and Tees In A Pod's very own Amanda Ryan of Creature Creations (@naturecreations). Thanks guys. Without your help, I'd still be searching the internet for examples!
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Created By: Amanda Vare "Manz", GritFX, Movies, TV, and Pop Culture Tshirts
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Post references
Links to all the sites that provided information:
Wikipedia; An Etymological Dictionary of Classical Mythology; Paganism/Wicca; What's your sign? Discover the world of signs and symbolic meanings; House of Names; Incredible Art Lessons; Chinese Horoscopes; Joelle's Sacred Grove Entrance; Symbolism Wiki; Speaker for the Animals; Like A Cat; Wild Speak; Chinese Zodiac - Chinese Astrology; Masonic Info; Ask/Define; New World Encyclopedia; eLook; Tao of Tattoos; Viewzone; The Curious Dreamer; Ancient Egypt: the Mythology and Egyptian myths; Kwintessential; The Jackal; The Master Of Speech; Socyberty; Urban Dictionary; Associated Counselors & Therapists; Emily Gems; Hub Pages; Lost Civilizations; Answers.com; Sacrifices in Ancient Cultures; National Geographic; About.com; American Museum of Natural History; Enchanted Learning; Macrame Owl; Symbolic Meanings Blog; Khandro Net; Myth Encyclopedia; Reptilian Agenda; Myths-Dreams-Symbols; BFRO.net; Wicked Winks; British Life and Culture; Fantasy Ireland; Symbols; Sweet Mystics Pack; Like a Cat; Dream Dictionary; Baronet 4 Tibet; Tibeto-logic; Power Animals; and Rainbow Crystal.
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Posted by Manz Labels: animals, animals on tees, Culture, design, history, mythology, religion, symbolism, t-shirt design, Weirdness
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WOW - great job, Manz! Not only did I get my learn on but I got to see alot of tees that I had never seen before! This post is quite the beast :o)
ReplyDeleteGreat post TIAP. Lots of terrific Ts to look at.
ReplyDeleteps. Here are my contributions to the topic
Hell's Kitty #1 http://www.zazzle.com/essemmgeeeditions/gifts?cg=196332152240649691
Hells Kitty #2 http://www.zazzle.com/essemmgeeeditions/gifts?cg=196385176577859294
I was kind of disappointed that liger didn't make the cut but then again, how often do you find an animal that begins with two Ls? With that logic, maybe the letter A should have been reserved for aardvark ;)
ReplyDeleteVery cool post Manz! Looks like a lot of time and work went into it.
ReplyDeleteA is for Aardvark
H is for Hippo and Somedays ....
You picked a great topic Manz - and Caza - hope you enjoy my aardvark!!
Oh yeah - I also have an armadillo!!
ReplyDeleteGreat Post! Definitely some awesome designs! An ever-inspiring theme is the Animal Alphabet from A-Z. Got it covered in my Pop Art Minis' realm too! Alphabet Soup! http://www.zazzle.com/popartminis/gifts?cg=196150838856040038
ReplyDeleteJust ait for our RHino t-shirt, it will blow the rabbits out the the water
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed the post and seeing all of the designs.
ReplyDeleteHave a couple feline designs. Here's my favorite!
http://www.zazzle.com/ninja_kitty_t_shirt-235660771422868943?gl=ValeriesGallery&group=mens&lifestyle=classic&rf=238264968534703054
awesome!!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! Great job.
ReplyDeleteWow... Awesome collection of Tees.
ReplyDeleteI did like the Yak Supporting Expeditions since the 1920s from MakaluWear. Pretty sweet that they give something away to people in need when we buy a tee. Thanks for posting their website. Its nice to see small companies doing good work.
I think I need that Buck Off tee....
ReplyDelete