In the olden days, during the slavery era in the United States, house slaves understood that a gentle strike to the teacup by the white wife of their owner meant beckoning.
In contrast, in slang, a teacup signifies a combination of reactions of displeasure, concern, and anger in unequal proportion.
The teacup goes hand in hand with a saucer, whose purpose was to cool the boiling beverage before sipping to avoid burning.
In the artistic world, a teacup tattoo can portray any of these meanings or more. However, its specific meaning generally symbolizes friendship, although tea lovers more commonly represent it. British tea parties are a frequent occurrence, and during these occasions, the formation of tight bonds occurs.
Many of those who get teacup tattoos have a solid inclination to this popular beverage, and this is their way of paying tribute to the drink. It also depicts a strong emotional connection between the beverage and the tattoo owner.
Some teacup tattoo designs are small and simple, yet others are larger and elaborate in detail. Most of these will be flaunted on the wrist, forearm, ankle, just above the elbow, or on the heel of one’s foot. For the conservative folk, a tiny teacup tattoo on the finger is also acceptable.
For the creative tattoo artist, extravagance can change the meaning of the teacup tattoo. For instance, a lady’s hands and feet showing out of the teacup as if she were in a bathtub can signify the bliss of solitude or the calming effect of the popular beverage.