“One of the factors adding extra intrigue to the show is the tattoos sported by several characters. They were created by the fabulous Loz Schiavo, hair and make-up designer for Peaky Blinders
Tommy Shelby has four tattoos that have appeared on screen. The most famous is the sunray design on his left pec. This was based on a real tattoo that had Jesus in the middle; but Tommy’s not the religious type, so only the sunrays were used.
On his right bicep is a military tattoo, probably a legacy of his First World War service, which includes the word “Forrard”, a version of “Forward”. On his left bicep is a rose interlaced with a horseshoe. This appeared between the first two series and marks his gaining of a legitimate betting licence during season one.
Also on his right arm is a tattoo that first hit the screens between seasons two and three. This reads TGC, standing for Tommy, Grace (his wife) and Charlie (his son).” —tattooednow.com
My favorite of Tommy’s tattoos is the "Forrard" tattoo, though the sun-rays come in as a close second. It’s clear that Loz Schiavo did her research, as the design closely mirrors the Birmingham Coat of Arms and its motto ‘Forward’. I do wonder about the misspelling, though. Was it intentional? Or did the artist perhaps get it wrong being drunk or something especially if Tommy had it done while in service or before he was shipped out as a way to remember Birmingham.
In 1889 Birmingham received city status and a full grant of arms, including the crest that was obtained from the College of Arms on April 3rd of that year.
The arms as seen on cigarette cards from 1906 (left) and 1911 (right)
On the right side a man habited as a smith (representing Industry) holding in the right hand a hammer resting on an anvil proper; and on the left side a female figure (representing Art) wreathed around the temples with laurel vert, holding in the right hand resting on the shield with a book and in the left a painter's palette with two brushes.
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