Cats have a certain notoriety that has been brought about by wives tales, myths, and by their own nature. They are a symbol of curiosity, independence and sensuality. Not to mention that cats are said to have nine lives, so they are also heavily linked to spirituality and rebirth. Cat tattoos tend to express these traits, and how they connect to their wearer.
Many cat tattoos feature a cartoon image of a black cat, these depictions vary; however, one of the most popular designs is a filled-in outline of a black cat with exaggerated features. This image often has a large, oblong head with small ears and long, colored eyes. The body usually has a long, sleek tail and legs and a curved torso. This depiction usually stands alone, however, there are occasionally dashes of colorful images thrown in for effect such as a bright red bow around its neck, a blue studded collar; it may even be set amongst a burgundy silk pillow, or tiger striped rug.
Given the vast cultural history these felines enjoy, cat tattoos may also have an exotic flair. In Egypt, cats are highly revered, and many Egyptian gods share a link with them. The goddess Bast is best known for her association with cats, and can be depicted in tattoo art as a stately female figure with the head of a cat. This figure can be placed spread before the sun, or battling a serpent before the sun god. Other examples that can easily be used in cat tattoos are the Norse goddess Freya, who was pulled by a magnificent chariot that was driven by two large, gray cats (a gift from Thor), and that of the maneki neko (or ‘beckoning cat’), which — depending on its color — is said to bring a variety of luck. A white maneki neko means success, a black one health, gold will bring riches, etc. Their paws also carry meaning; a raised right paw is an invitation to wealth and fortune, left is a welcoming sign, and both paws is a sign of protection to all things domestic.
Another very popular design for cat tattoos is the portrait. These tend to be translated from pictures of the wearer’s own pets, but on occasion are simply a charming picture of the wearer’s favorite breed.
Cats have always been fascinating creatures — whether you love them, or you hate them, you cannot deny all of their distinctive and mysterious qualities.
Post from: Free Tattoo Designs & Patterns
Cat Tattoos
Eagle tattoos have been an expression of freedom for ages. The appearance of an eagle has been associated with pride and patriotism, but they also make for striking pieces of art all unto themselves.
The majority of eagle tattoos feature the American bald eagle. These large, strong birds are often depicted with wings spread wide, and a determined expression on their face. They have broad, brown wings; a white head, yellow beak and talons and striking golden eyes. These eagles are generally shown alongside a swaying American flag, or intertwined with the body of the bird. One idea for this particular design is to place the eagle in flight, with the flag as part of its flapping wings.
Although the bald eagle is very popular in eagle tattoos, there are several different varieties of this creature. Many people prefer to use the larger types of eagle for their piece, as they allow for more detail. For example, when its wings are spread, the harpy eagle’s wings sport a bold white and gray pattern; the feathers on their head are also remarkable, as they appear in an almost crown-like shape. The harpy eagle is also known for its fantastic speed and strength, and is capable of carrying off large tree dwelling mammals. It was named after the harpies of Greek mythology, and can be depicted in tattoo art as carrying off the placid spirits of the dead to Hades. You could also show a more serene image of a Wahlberg’s eagle sitting peacefully on a branch with golden brown fall leaves, peacefully watching the landscape before it.
Many of the smaller varieties can also make for fascinating eagle tattoos. The short toed eagle has bushy white and brown feathers, and a needle-like beak; however, it still maintains the intense expression of the bald eagle. The main prey of this bird are snakes. You could easily depict the struggle between the comparatively small — but equally strong — snake, and the eagle.
Artistically speaking, given the beauty and variety of these birds, the diversity that eagle tattoos are capable of is plentiful. Naturally, these creatures create many scenes that can and have been translated into many mediums of art. Eagle tattoos are no exception when it comes to expressing the essence of not only their wild distinctiveness, but the freedom that they symbolize.
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Eagle Tattoos
Snake tattoos have both positive and negative connotations. To some they are seen as a symbol of fertility, others a symbol of the underworld. They are seen as both deadly creatures and healers. Most of these symbols are due to the vast and mysterious series of mythology that surrounds them. Stepping aside from the mythology and focusing purely on this creature, they are a symbol of strength, and are deeply respected for their power, potential deadliness and serpentine grace.
Most people prefer snake tattoos that use a realistic depiction. The image of a red and black ’scarlet’ snake, or deep black ‘racer’ snake coiling around an arm, leg or perfectly straight along the length of the spine, are not uncommon pieces to see. A large portrait-type image of a cobra that seems to be on the verge of striking from out of the skin is another good example of the realistic approach. An interesting spin on this idea is of the lifelike snake actually piercing its fangs into the tattoo wearer’s skin.
Snake tattoos do not necessarily have to show the whole snake. Because of the colorful nature of this reptile’s scales, it can easily be utilized to create a unique armband, or even cover larger areas of the body. These scales overlap and have an appearance akin to a softly diamond shaped tile. Each row of scales can be a different color; Western coral snakes, for instance have perfectly straight and vivid red, black and white scales; a timber rattlesnake generally has wavy lines in varying shades of steel gray and black.
Many snake tattoos feature a scene of some sort. The snake charmer is one interesting idea; a long-bearded man sitting in the midst of a busy street scene; a dark, hypnotized snake dancing like smoke from inside a woven basket. The cobra can also be shown wrapped around the image of a sleeping Buddha, protecting him from the sun with his vast neck and head. You could also show a more provocative image of the goddess Coatlicue — whose skirt and face were said to be made up of many serpents — placed in a somber setting to signify both the life and death that she was said to hold sway over.
To some people, snakes are a thing to be avoided at all costs. In many cases, their infamy is sound, but the fearless few who choose to get snake tattoos know that the creatures that are dangerous hold as much beauty as those that are peaceful.
Post from: Free Tattoo Designs & Patterns
Snake Tattoos
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