An iron cross is rather a distinct design for a tattoo. However, it has gained popularity for its symbolism. Take a look at some design ideas and symbolism associated with it.
Selecting the perfect tattoo design can be a bothersome task. The more you keep on looking, the more confused you will be due to availability of the choices for designs and symbols used as tattoos. Therefore, if you are still confused and cannot decide on the design to be tattooed on your body, then there is one simple thing that you can follow. Look for the meanings of the tattoos and look for the one that suits your personality or thoughts and beliefs. With this, you can easily find the perfect tattoo for yourself. However, sometimes, we find that there are certain tattoo designs that are attractive, meaningful yet controversial. An iron cross is one such tattoo design.
Meaning
The cross has always been one of the most symbolic and easily recognized symbols in the world. The simple cross represents Christianity and is tattooed by people who strongly believe in their religion. On the other hand, the Egyptian cross tattoo is also one of the most popular tattoo designs in the world. However, among all the cross tattoo designs, the iron cross tattoo is the most controversial one. It is inspired from the iron cross, a military decoration given for military services in Prussia and Germany in earlier times (before the World War II). Therefore, sometimes, this tattoo is considered to be related to racists and Nazis.
However, this is far from true. The iron cross was given to men for outstanding services during the war long time prior to the Nazi rule. Therefore, it cannot be related to any racist groups. On the other hand, it stands for bravery and courage. Secondly, iron cross tattoos are also favored by bikers and adventurers and young adults for its attractive appearance. Also, this cross within a web stands for unity.
Designs
These tattoos are usually made in darker colors like black, deep blue, etc. However, you can even try different color combinations and use colors like green, red, purple too. Iron cross can be mixed with other designs to form a unique tattoo design. One of the best options in this case is the cross with flames around it. Secondly, you can even have an iron cross tattoo with a web around it. A cross with wings is yet another popular tattoo design. Adventurous people also favor an iron cross with a picture of a skull on top of it.
It is a misconception that iron cross tattoos are masculine designs and hence, are meant only for men. These tattoo designs are also favored and proudly sported by women. If you wish to make it more feminine, you can have flowers or vines coiled around. An iron cross with a Bible text inscribed around it is also a unique tattoo design. If you are thinking of the location of this tattoo, it can be placed on any part of the body depending on the size of the tattoo. However, this design is mostly tattooed on arms, chest, back and lower back.
The iron cross, although a controversial tattoo design, does not stand for racism, and hence, can be sported by people all over the world. Lastly, as a concluding note, one should remember that a tattoo should be made only from a certified professional tattoo artist as that is safe from hygiene point of view. Good luck!