Celtic & Irish Tattoo Meanings: Pictures & Design Ideas

Irish tattoos are a direct statement of the culture of the Irish people. Celtic tattoos are some of the most stylish of designs around today. The history of these tattoos are one of the reasons that they are so desirable.

Worn as an expression of the pride of their ancestry, many choose the Celtic tattoo because it is surrounded by mystique. This tattoo can actually be traced back to around 500 A.D.

Celtic And Irish Tattoo Meanings
Celtic tattoos have a wide range of styles and designs. The main reason they are so popular is the meaning behind them. They are more than simply a design - the meaning behind these tattoos are symbolic to the ancient Celtic way of life. From swords to crosses, these tattoos are a symbol of the history and religious beliefs of this heritage.

Although some may choose this tattoo because of the intricacy of the design and the universal symbol of the cross, there are many who wear it as a birthright. The Irish cross is different and this is what makes it stand out from other crosses.

Celtic Tattoo Ideas And Design Styles
They are often designed with Celtic knots placed at the points where the parts of the cross meet. The knot is representative of life. The belief that there is no beginning and no end is expressed in the Celtic knot.

Since this is such an intricate design, it requires skill to draw this tattoo. It is not just a series of lines; it is quite elaborate when done correctly.

The cross is actually a symbol that represents the four elements - water, fire, wind and earth - and today's tattoos often have the added features of vines and swirls and intricate geometric designs. The center of the cross represents life, which is surrounded by the natural elements.

Celtic Tattoo History And Specific Meanings
The Irish cross tattoo was placed on warriors many years ago before they went to battle to protect them from their enemies. The claddagh is an example of an Irish tattoo with a meaning that according to Irish culture is a symbol of love and friendship.

The design is two hands holding a heart and contains a crown. There are rings that are made with this design as well that are often given as a token of affection.

The shamrock is another Irish tattoo that is often seen. This is a symbol of good luck and is quite popular. The shades of green that are used for this tattoo can vary, but the basic meaning is still the same.

Another reason the Irish tattoo is so popular is that they can be beautiful in any size. Large designs or small, they are so complex and this is what adds to their beauty.

The Irish flag is often seen as a tattoo. This is a symbol of freedom for those who have Irish heritage. One of the more whimsical tattoos associated with the Irish is a leprechaun. This tattoo is often seen on men and is considered somewhat of a good luck charm.

According to Irish folklore, the leprechaun was the guardian of the pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. The story is that if you can get to the end of the rainbow before it disappears, you will have found the pot of gold. Perhaps a metaphor for living a successful life.

Joker Tattoo Meanings: Pictures And Inspired Design Ideas

Why are Joker tattoos such a popular design? They are likely more popular among those who are either devout fans of the Batman comic, movie and television series, or get pleasure from the association the joker has with mischievousness.

The joker meaning is usually one or the other - foolish or full of mischief and a little evil. The popularity of the Joker tattoo is more much dominant among men than women. However, we do see requests amoung women from time to time.

Joker Tattoo Meanings And Personality
They are often associated with having somewhat of an insane personality. The Batman series further popularized this notion. The type of Joker tattoo desired is dependent on the person choosing the design. The focus is typically on the smile because this is the distinctive characteristic of the Joker.

Also associated with a deck of playing cards, the Joker represents the only card in the deck that does not have a numerical value. As such, it is considered the 'wild card.' This is often why people get a tattoo of the Joker. They may see themselves as the 'wild card' in the deck of life. Others may choose the Joker because they enjoy card games or gambling.

Tattoo Design Techniques And Ideas
Colors and shading used to create a Joker tattoo are part of the detail that makes this a highly desirable tattoo. The detail and the mixture of the colors - green, yellow and black - are shaded to give the tattoo the look desired.

The makeup is often smeared around the mouth as well to give the Joker his evil and insane look. It is important that the tattoo artist master the lines and wrinkles around the eyes and mouth to get the right look of this tattoo.

Jack Nicholson And Heath Ledger Joker Portrayal
The Joker tattoo may be chosen because of the popularity of the movie or because the person is a fan of either Jack Nicholson or Heath Ledger, who both played the infamous character. The latter is chosen as a remembrance to the actor. There are also plenty of Jack Nicholson fans as well who enjoyed his portrayal of the Joker and have gotten tattoos of his mischievous portrayal of the villain.

The Joker is portrayed as the bad guy, always making a mess of everything, but he is still considered by many to be charming and fun to watch. For many, this tattoo is chosen for the little 'joker' that lives in all of us. Some people get enjoyment out of the scoundrels as well as the good guys. The fact that they have so much fun while creating havoc just appeals to that side of us.

Joker Tattoo History And Popularity
This character first appeared in 1940 in the Batman comics. Since then, movies and television have given the Joker a status that has only grown more popular over the years. Celebrities are even sporting this tattoo. For example, the keyboardist for Bon Jovi has a Joker tattoo on his chest.

The popularity of this tattoo does not seem to be waning in the least. In fact, it is gaining. Jokers are present in Tarot cards as well and this has an entirely different meaning for some who choose this design.

The presence of the Joker in Tarot cards is dependent on the position. If it is facing upright, this is considered to be a sign of a new beginning. If it is facing down, this means there are important choices that must be made before starting the new beginning. The Joker in Tarot cards is referred to as the 'Fool'.