Cross tattoos are some of the most popular tattoos being done today
. The Latin cross is regarded as the popular. There are variations of this cross like the Celtic and many tribal styles as well as the Gothic cross. The Celtic cross is among the best known Irish symbols. Many of them served as boundaries where parishes intersected. Many have intricate carvings on them that would make for a beautiful tattoo design.
Christians use the cross as a symbol of Christ dying for our sins. Romans commonly used crosses as a way of execution for non-Romans and slaves. Unlike the Jewish faith who are not allowed to get tattoos Christians can get them. The classic cross is the Latin cross or crux ordinaria, the vertical post represents the divine and the horizontal represents the world. The intersection is the union of both.
Tribal cross tattoos may also be Celtic in origin. A number of them can have a shamrock pattern added. Other additions can be praying hands, dragons and angel wings. Daggers, swords and skulls are also added.
Gothic or ornamental crosses are based on the Latin cross tattoos and then adorned with intricate scrolling or sometimes they may have a German look about them. The cross can have the addition of barbed wire or swords and daggers.
Not all tattoos are religious in nature, many of them represent ancient cultures. They are worn by men and women on the shoulders, back and forearms. Women tend to like them on their ankles or lower backs.
Do your research and examine Johnny Karp's Cross Tattoos books at your local bookstore.