Angel images have definitely increased in popularity in the tattooing world in recent years but one of the most commonly requested by both male and female enthusiasts are cherub tattoos. Unlike some of the more celestial images used to depict angels, cherubs are usually pictures as cute children with chubby cheeks and golden curls, plus wings of course. According to Christian beliefs, in the hierarchy of angels they are of the eighth highest order and are believed to be messengers of god, who provide a significant connection between humanity and heaven.
As a tattoo, these images could be used as an expression of one’s faith, ideals or spiritual beliefs but to many they are a symbol of a cherished loved one, often a child who has departed this world much too soon.
It is worth noting that Cupid was also a cherub so this also gives cherub tattoos strong connotations with love and romance although they also symbolize protection and guidance. Sporting any angel body art may be to express one’s own spirituality as well as to give the wearer a sense of being watched over and some even consider such an inking to be the equivalent of a guardian angel. However not all cherubs have such positive associations as there are some versions that are not in the least bit sweet and innocent. A prophet in the bible named Ezekiel described them as a four faced creature, with each face featuring that of a man, a lion, an eagle and an ox.
These images work well as both small and large designs that can be scaled up or down to suit almost any body part from the wrist or ankle to the shoulders or back according to one’s individual preference and tastes. This is one design that is popular with both men and women, which can be adapted to make it more feminine or masculine as desired. While they are often illustrated using shades of black, white and grey inks they also look visually stunning in multi-colored versions too. Cherubs are often used in combination with other images and symbols and are often customized in this manner to make them more unique to the individual. Flowers, arrows, clouds and rainbows are all favorites often used in cherub tattoos as are names and dates relating to a special person or significant, meaningful event.
These can also be depicted in flight using a variety of shades to produce this effect, or at rest – perhaps sitting on a cloud – but this is entirely down to what the individual wants to convey in their choice of design.
In our modern society, spirituality is very important to many people so cherub tattoos appeal for this reason and not just for religious purposes. This is an ancient image that has transcended through the ages to become very much a part of the tattooing industry today. It is a classic design that is both alluring and pretty while remaining highly symbolic too so it is not really surprising that it has become such a favorite with tattooists. There are so many possibilities with this particular image and perhaps one of the main attractions is the way in which it can be modified to make it unique to the individual without losing the strength of its spiritual appeal.
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