This design incorporates a number of design elements, including script, black and gray shading and clean line work to create a one of a kind memorial to the wearer’s Irish heritage. At the center of this piece, the artist utilizes well-saturated black and consistent line work to create a great example of a Celtic cross. On either side of the cross are two Celtic harps, long used as symbols of Irish heritage and strongly associated with royalty. Surrounding the harps is black and gray filigree work and Celtic knots reminiscent of four-leaf clovers. At the top of the piece is clean script work that completes this unique tattoo.

Celtic Tattoo FAQ’s

What does a Celtic cross mean?

Thanks to a series of historical events, the Irish and their descendants have spread around the globe, and with them they brought their culture and traditions. Few Irish symbols are more instantly recognizable than the Celtic cross. While this image can be found in artwork and on tattoos around the world, the true origins and meaning behind this ancient symbol is still contested. Scholars can’t even agree on who introduced the distinctive cross to Ireland in the first place, although the story goes that St. Patrick brought it back to Ireland with him from Roman Britain.

Some authors believe that the circle on the cross represents the Roman Sun god Invictus, while others say it represents Jesus’ halo when he was nailed to the cross. Still others say that it is simply a holdover from pagan religions, arguing that the iconic image is a combination of an even armed cross within a circle—a common symbol in many pagan traditions—and the Christian cross. 

Whatever the origins of the ancient symbol, in modern times it has become one of the most popular ways to commemorate Celtic heritage and stylized versions can be found around the world.