In fact, the Irish commonly place a clover in the bride’s bouquet as well as in the groom’s boutonniere to ensure a happy union!īecause they can be quite small, shamrock tattoos are versatile and easy to wear. The word "shamrock" is derived from the Irish word seamrog, which means "little clover." It refers to a three-leafed white clover (which is really green but has white flowers), not the rare four-leaf clover often associated with good luck.ĭespite not being the "lucky" four-leaf clover, the shamrock and any clover represents good fortune in the Irish tradition. They are a subtle yet easily recognizable nod to one’s Irish heritage.They promise the wearer good luck in all of his or her pursuits.Today, shamrock tattoos have a double meaning: The shamrock also represented the three phases of the moon.They also warned the druids of an approaching storm when its petals stood upright.The shamrock was believed to ward off evil.In pre-Christian times, the ancient Druids planted and cultivated shamrocks because of its mystical powers: The shamrock has been a sacred plant in Ireland since time immemorial. It is said he reached down, plucked a shamrock, and held it up to illustrate the Holy Trinity to the followers of pagan Celtic gods and goddesses. The best known of these symbols is the shamrock. He was a wise man and used familiar objects to illustrate Christian principles to the Irish people. Patrick credits him with introducing and spreading Christianity to Ireland. Irish Catholics are usually well versed in the lives of the saints. The Irish are very well aware of their Celtic heritage, but many Irish are also very religious. Today's tattoo symbols draw on this ancient tradition and are a favorite motif for Irish tattoo designs. Celtic druids used these complex carved stones to mark boundaries between territories. This Celtic knotwork can also be found on Irish stonework that may date as far back as 400 BC. The convoluted knotwork designs that turned and twisted back on themselves appeared in jewelry, weapons, pottery, textiles. The Celts were an ancient people who once lived throughout Europe, settling in the British Isles around the time of the early Roman Empire.Ĭeltic art consists of beautiful and complex knotwork and stylized images taken from nature. The earliest and strongest influence is the Celtic culture. The Irish culture as we know it today, is the result of several distinct influences.
4 leaf clover tattoo full#
The Irish have a soulful, spiritual and very colorful culture - and Irish tattoo art reflects the full spectrum of it.įrom Celtic tattoos to the classic Claddagh heart, to religious tattoos such as the Irish cross, these tattoos are a great way to celebrate your appreciation for Irish and Celtic heritage. Irish tattoos come in a great variety of styles, stemming from the rich and varied artistic traditions that are part of the Irish culture.
0 kommentar(er)
