Posts Tagged ‘cross tattoo design’
Should I Get A Cross Tattoo?
A cross tattoo, perhaps more than any other image in Western culture, gives its wearer the opportunity to make a religious statement. There are many styles, forms, and designs of cross tattoos and each one has its own unique historical background. In a cross tattoo these histories are displayed in the intricate details that describe the culture and the faith backgrounds from which they were born.
While there are literally hundreds of design variations on the cross tattoo, one of the most popular is the Celtic design. Even though there are variations within this theme, the Celtic cross is characterized by a circle that sits behind the horizontal arms of the cross. Based in large part on the burial stones that decorate the Celtic landscape, this design is very popular in memorial tattoos and can be integrated into a more complex tattoo easily.
The Latin cross tattoo is the most basic of all the cross tattoo designs. This tattoo design is what most people think of when they envision a cross. It is a simple pattern consisting of one long vertical line intersected by a horizontal line about 1/3 of the way down. This is the design that is typically equated with the Christian version of the Cross of Christ, and is therefore the most popular design for artists who do religious tattoos. The tattoo is often done three dimensionally to look like wood.
It is popular to get a tattoo that integrates a cross with another design. A cross with a rose tattoo is very popular. This design has a lot of religious significance but it also makes a visually stunning tattoo because of the contrast between the hard edges of a cross and the softer, more feminine details of a rose. A cross with a tribal tattoo design is another popular combination. Many times, those seeking a tattoo with religious meaning will choose a tribal design to represent a crown of thorns that surrounds the cross.
It may seem like a challenge to design a cross tattoo that is original. With so many people choosing to wear one, it can seem like all of the most creative possibilities have been used. Take the opportunity to describe what you like to your tattoo artist. You may be pleasantly surprised at what he or she is able to design. Remember, the tattoo artist is primarily a creative person, so make sure you utilize the full scope of their talents. While there is no such thing as a “new” cross, it is entirely possible to have a new cross tattoo that is wholly and completely yours. You can be an original.