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| Cross Tattoos |
The cross is one of the most iconic and broadly relevant symbols known to man. It is unclear where this figure originated from and what particular period in human history it was devised. Despite this, almost every culture attaches a meaning to it. It is also favored as a pattern, or part of a work of art. In fact, it is also among the most popular in this regard. There are many individuals who have cross tattoos. Brochures of tattoo artists are filed with variation and endless styles of these designs. This establishes it as a popular design for body art.
These designs are used many times. The general concept may be repeatedly used. However, each time a design or a variation is used it is unique in itself. They are entirely different icons. This is due to the various historical narratives, and traditions attached to each form of this symbol. Each cross variant has a unique story behind it.
For example, the Christian cross alone has a multitude of variations with each one having a specific meaning or name. A Celtic cross pattern and Florian cross are both cross designs but are completely distinct in their cultural roots and origins The Celtic cross is a popular British pattern, including in tattoos. The Florian cross is common in Austria and is also used as a body art design. This emphasizes that as each cross is different from other so too are cross tattoos.
Different individuals who opt to have a cross tattoo would pick a design that appeals to them most, or they are familiar with. A person who is a deeply Catholic may have a common cross tattoo. Others may want to have cross tattoos that are born from different cultures like the ankh which comes from Egypt, or the Sun cross. This is a simple cross enclosed by a circle which is from prominent in pagan cultures like in that of American Indians and Bulgarians.
It may not be apparent to many but crosses are also political symbols. They can be found as part of or by themselves as political icons. This also means that these tattoos can and often serve as indications of a person's beliefs. Having a tattoo of a flag that has a cross in it can be a manifestation of their allegiance to that country flag represents. Another example which is provocative is the swastika as a tattoo. It is still a cross tattoo which can mean adherence to certain nationalist ideas.
Cross tats are popular since they appeal and reflect individual human distinctiveness. They can embody different meaning and ideals. This is one of the few tattoo patterns that is universal and yet can be radically unique and specific to the persons they are inscribed on. Cross tattoos are versatile body art patterns in this sense. The variations and meanings of these widely known icons are reflective of man's diversity. This also means that tattoos of the same are prime examples of diversity and creativity.