Celtic Tattoos - Why Are They So Popular

Celtic tattos are still one of the most popular types of design despite their long history. These designs have existed for thousands of years, yet more than one thousand people search for information about celtic tattoo designs every day. So why are these designs still such a popular choice for tattoos? The Celtic people have a long and proud history. From ancient times their people have shown an artistic ability to create complex works of art. These elaborate patterns took pride of place on their stonework, metalwork, weapons and jewelry. In fact ancient celtic designs carved in stone can still be found in both Ireland and Scotland. Celtic tattoo designs usually consist of elaborate patterns of lines, loops and spirals that are linked together in a decorative manner. Occasionally animal designs, often depicting the tiger and the lion are incorporated into the tattoo design. These celtic animal designs (often known as zoomorphic tattoo designs) differ from traditional celtic patterns as the various lines and strands of the design end in animal heads, feet and tails instead of following a never ending path. The meaning of these patterns is not readily apparant. To find the real meaning of celtic artwork you have to look much deeper. The constant interlacing of lines and spirals symbolizes the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. And the never ending route of the loops and spirals represents the never ending cycle of life, death and rebirth. Celtic designs also represent the fight and the heart of the Celtic people who were renowned throughout the world as courageous warriors. And it's thanks to a combination of these noble values and the timeless symbolism of these patterns that they remain such a popular choice for tattoo designs. The most popular and well known of all the celtic designs are the celtic knot and the celtic cross. Celtic Knot: This tattoo consists of decorative loops with no beginning and no end which represents the continuing cycle of life and death. Celtic Cross: The celtic cross is usually a highly elaborate design containing many interlinking spirals and strands. Once again, the lines used to create the outline of the cross don't have a beginning or an end, and as such represent the immortality of human life and love. The cross is also significant as the Celtic people believed it would protect them from their enemies. Celtic tattoo designs are a great way of expressing pride in your ancestry whether you are of Irish, Scottish or Welsh descent. In fact these designs are highly popular among people from North America who have Celtic ancestors. However, you should be aware that due to the elaborate nature of these patterns, celtic tattoo designs are not easy to create. So before you start, make sure that you find a tattoo artist who has experience in creating celtic tattoo designs. An eye for detail and the ability to place the lines and spirals in exactly the right place is vital. And even once you find a talented artist, it will take a lot of time, patience and dare I say it, tolerance of pain, in order to get your celtic design just right. So make sure that you find the perfect celtic design before you go any further. About the Author: Gustavo Gomez runs www.SuperTattooDesigns.com. For more information about celtic tattoos and a wide range of other tattoo designs, check out Super Tattoo Designs. Read more articles by: Gustavo Gomez Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Digg Reddit

Star Tattoo Symbolism

Star symbols have appeared in various guides and contexts for thousands of years, each bringing different cultural, social and religious meanings to the people involved. They have come to symbolise positivity, high ambitions, dreams, ideals and even life itself. In fact, the greatest star of all, the sun is vital for our continued survival. Star designs mean a multitude of different things to different people, but perhaps the most meaningful way to personalise the meaning of stars depends on the number of points depicted by the design. 4 Points The four pointed star, either shown as a plus sign type cross with or without the ends sharpened, has close connections with the various Native American tribes and therefore has come to symbolise native american pride. 5 Points The five pointed star is the most popular design by a substantial margin. If I asked you to think about a star, I bet you'd think of a five pointed design. But the five pointed star takes on many different meanings for different people. First, there is the filled in pentagram. This solid five pointed star, like the type used on the American flag, is the most popular variety. It can form part of a tattoo design of almost any size and can appear on any part of the body. This design is the most basic way to symbolise a star and all the associated meanings of positivity and ambition. Second, there is the outline of a five pointed star known as a pentacle. This is the most popular design used to symbolize witchcraft. This pagan symbol represents their quest for divine knowledge and the secrets of life. Each points of the star represents one of the five elements; air, water, earth, fire and spirit. Third, there is the upside down pentacle which represents the darker side of imagary. This reversed pentacle is generally associated with the satanic or dark interpretation of ritualism. If you want to avoid this possible symbolic meaning, it's wise to choose the traditional pentacle star tattoo design. 6 Points The six pointed star, or hexagram, is a triangle overlaid by another upside down triangle, and has existed since the early bronze period (3000 BC). Initially is was used as a magical symbol, but subsequently two further meaning have developed. The more obscure meaning relates to an ancient pagan god known as the Star of Remphan. More commonly, the six pointed star represents the Star or Shield of David. After the arrival of Christianity, the symbol became popular among Jews and was adopted as the official seal of the Jewish community at the end of the 17th century. The six points represent balance and beauty. 7 Points The seven pointed star, or septagram also has a variety of different meanings, each of which creates a vast array of tattoo design opportunities. As an added bonus, the septacle is not as popular as the other star designs so it could be a good option if you want your design to be totally unique. First, it's the basic of the geometry of Le Basilique de Saint Quentin which represents the perfected man. The design is placed inside a square which represents the finite. Additionally, two circles appear in the center of the star, which are used to signify the sun and the role it plays in the center of the universe. Second, it is known at the fairy star and is associated with elves and fairies. It represents magic and the spiritual realms and as such is seen a symbol of magic and childhood to many people. Third, it is often the star worn by many sheriffs and law enforcement officers. Finally, seven has long been considered a lucky or magical number. Lucky sevens, the seven wonders of the world, seven colors of the rainbow, seven notes in the musical scale etc. 8 Points The eight pointed star or Octogram has a number of meanings. In modern times is the icon of the National and Auxiliary Fire Service, and for this reason is popular with firefighters across America. It is also the symbol of the cross of Saint John. In pagan terms it represents completeness and the regenerative cycle. Finally, it was the emblem of the Knights of Malta and was popular during the Crusades. The eight points are said to represent the eight virtues of being a knight; Tact, Perseverance, Gallantry, Loyalty, Dexterity, Explicitness, Observation and Sympathy. 9 Points The nine pointed star represents a connection as it is the symbol that unites the nine worlds in norse mythology. To many people it also represents completeness as it's the largest single digit number. About the Author: For more free information about star tattoos and ideas about a whole range of tattoo designs, visit Gustavo Gomez's site at www.SuperTattooDesigns.com. Read more articles by: Gustavo Gomez Article Source: www.iSnare.com Share: Del.icio.us Digg Reddit