Celtic Cross Tattoos, Designs, Pictures and Ideas

Cross tattoos are incredibly popular, and you don’t have to be a devout follower of any religion to have one on your skin.

Any tattoo artist can tell you that Celtic tattoo designs in general are always in demand. However, Celtic crosses are among some of the most popular cross tattoo designs. Celtic cross tattoos are full of intricate knot work, never ending and never beginning. Some people decide on Celtic cross tattoos simply because of their beauty. They do have deeper meaning than that to others though. Irish, Scottish, and Welsh descendants often have a Celtic cross tattoo to show their pride in their heritage. The cross also symbolizes constant spiritual development.

Another cross tattoo design that some may get because of their heritage is the Iron Cross. Originally the Iron cross was the symbol of the Teutonic Knights in the 14th century. Later it became a German military symbol in 1870. Today those who decide on Iron cross tattoos may decide on them because they stand for honor and strength. The Iron cross is a shorter version of the typical cross, along with it being wider at each end.

The Gothic cross generally has no religious or heritage based meaning behind it. Its basis is on the Christian cross, but it’s usually the center of attention in a tattoo design, along with things like knives, swords, or wires woven through it.

The Christian cross tattoo is obviously another very popular cross tattoo design. There are generally two main crosses that can then be interpreted artistically from the tattoo artist. The Latin cross is the simple wooden cross. The Crucifix is the cross with Jesus on it. It may or may not include the nails and the crown of thorns.

With any of these cross tattoo designs you can add whatever you need to make it your own. Some people decide to get a cross tattoo that also serves as an in loving memory tattoo. Tattoo artists can easily add a banner with names and/or dates to incorporate into your cross tattoo. Another popular idea is rosary beads with the cross at the end. A tattoo artist could work wrapping the beads around your wrist.

For less religious symbolism, some people like to have cross tattoos designed out of things that generally wouldn’t be considered a cross. For example, two swords crossing in the middle or a skull with the blades crossing through it. Others enjoy a simple wooden cross with vines or roses wrapped around it. The possibilities are endless.

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Japanese Samurai Tattoos Picture and Ideas

Japanese Samurai Tattoos

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Samurai Tattoos, Designs Pictures and Ideas

Samurai tattoos are often meant to represent all of the things that actual samurais lived by: courage, honor, self sacrifice, and living life to its fullest. In Japan, the samurai is the ultimate emblem of masculinity and pride; around the world their image is seen as something strong and mysterious, brave and seductive.Many samurai tattoos are done in a portrait style. Unlike most portrait pieces, the majority of these tattoos are done in bold colors, and — although realistic in appearance — are often shown in the midst of heavy action. You may see a samurai in mid-air, swirling his sword, with hair coming unfurled and a determined expression on his thoroughly detailed face. A lot of people like to add small details to truly enhance this style of art. For example, you may see small scars along the arms of the warrior; you may also see intricate details on armor or robes, and a genuine and lifelike expression on his face.

Some people like to pull images from old woodblock-style paintings for their samurai tattoos. This style is regularly done in a perfect balance of muted and bold colors, and shows the samurai costume in full detail. These images often depict the samurai wielding his sword, sometimes on the back of a horse, on a mountain, or even rising from the ocean. One particularly unique depiction would be to show the modernization of the samurai: dressed in a more Western-style clothing, still with dark hair pulled back, and shining katana in hand.Some samurai tattoos take on a more unique appearance. Many of these are done in a cartoon style, and are made up of bright colors, and classical Asian art fused with bombastic illustrations. Many of these piece show violent depictions, and may occasionally stretch the cartoon factor and create a sort of zombie samurai — out for revenge. Another unique idea would be to create a steam punk samurai. Much of the samurai armor had an almost robotic look to it, and you could easily tweak small pieces of the armor, as well as add items such as gears to the helmet, or even a gas mask and goggles.

Samurai tattoos often tell a story. Whether placed against an intricate background, set amidst a rousing fight, or standing all unto himself, a samurai will always make a statement with his history, beauty and mystery.

Samurai Tattoos Pictures and Ideas

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Geisha Tattoos Pictures and Ideas

Geisha can be translated into ‘artist’; geishas themselves are seen as some of the most exotic, graceful, sensual and talented artists in the world; and although they are one of many remarkable symbols, geisha tattoos have become one of the most popular pieces in Asian influenced body art.

Many people like to use geisha tattoos that utilize the entire splendor of a traditional geisha or maiko (an apprentice whose appearance differs slightly from a full-fledged geisha). These are generally done in a portrait style, and depict the elegant figure with a porcelain-white complexion; small, brightly colored and bow-like lips; brilliantly hued kimono and one of the four shimada hairstyles (most commonly a style called ‘momoware,’ which looks something like a divided peach, and bears a good deal of colorful ornamentation).

The majority of geisha tattoos, however, take on the look of a pin up model. This style tends to exaggerate the feminine curves, red lips and vibrant trappings; it also plays off of the subtle sensuality that geishas are known for. For instance, it is not uncommon to see the geisha standing with her back turned to the on-looker, with a heavily painted face peering over her shoulder, neck partially painted and a shoulder exposed.

Although less frequently used, you may occasionally see wood block geisha tattoos. These usually show a more elongated version — both in body and face — and her clothing may appear long and flowing. The colors are normally more subdued, and show the geisha in a traditional setting; for example, she may be dancing, playing a shamisan, or simply fanning herself demurely. For something a bit different, you could create a fantasy piece in the wood block style; for instance, the geisha could rise from the ocean, her robes combining with the waves; or her pale, painted face and a white, or light blue kimono could meld with a snowy mountain, with only the shocks of dark black hair, sensual eyes and bright reds lips standing out.

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