Phoenix Tattoos
From LoveToKnow Tattoos
Phoenix tattoos symbolize strength and resilience. Images of the mythical phoenix can be lush or stark, colorful or simple, and they can be drawn in any style.
The Phoenix in Myth
The phoenix is also known as a "firebird". According to ancient Egyptian lore, this mythical creature is said to choose its own moment of death, create a funeral pyre, and then rise from its ashes to live again. The phoenix is unique among mythical creatures; only one can live at any time. This bird has become a symbol of overcoming adversity, of renewal, and of courage.
Persian Huma
An ancient Persian symbol, the huma (also known as the bird of paradise) resembles the Egyptian phoenix. Sometimes shown as a graceful bird with a magnificent tail, the huma embodies strength and health and is said to provide aid in defeating enemies. The huma is also known as the "kingmaker," giving royal power to anyone on whom its shadow falls.
Chinese 'Fenghuang
A similar creature exists in Chinese mythology. The fenghuang, while not truly a phoenix, is an immortal bird whose appearance is said to portend peace and harmony in the world. It may be male or female but is often thought to combine both male and female essences, or yin and yang.
Christian Influence
In more recent times, the phoenix has been associated with Christianity. Its ability to rise from the dead is seen as a representation of Christ and the resurrection.
The Phoenix and the Occult
Believers in the occult - including paganism and witchcraft - also include the phoenix in their mythology. Some people believe the phoenix is a symbol of the devil. Others see it as a sign of life and rebirth.
The Phoenix in Art
The original Egyptian phoenix had the body of a human and the wings of a bird. Later, it came to resemble a heron, a graceful, long-necked and long-legged bird. Its plumage is red and gold, the colors of the sun. It builds its funeral pyre from cinnamon sticks and other aromatic herbs, and the leftover ashes are contained in an egg of reddish-brown myrrh.
Other myths have pictured the bird as a peacock or an eagle. In many drawings, paintings, and carvings, it appears as a majestic, fiery creature unlike any natural bird.
Which Phoenix?
Phoenix tattoos can be works of original art, or they can be based on favorite images from books, comics, or videogames. Fawkes, the famous phoenix from the Harry Potter series, was brought to life in the movies based on the books. A phoenix helps save one of the heroes in The Chronicles of Narnia. X-men fans might think of the sexy, troubled Jean Grey, code-name Phoenix. Players who remember the 1980's will recall the old-school video graphics of the Phoenix video game, and younger players are familiar with the symbol of James Bond's nemesis in the game Nightlife.
Phoenix tattoos can connect their wearer with other game-players or fans. They can also represent other interests.
The Phoenix in Space
The Phoenix Mars Lander, expected to launch in 2007, will explore the Martian arctic. Its symbol, a stylized phoenix framed against the red planet, could be the basis for a striking tattoo.
Symbol of a City
Natives of Phoenix, Arizona show off their hometown pride with their city's symbol, which is a clean, modern image of a phoenix with wings raised.
Examples of Phoenix Tattoos
Flash art for phoenix tattoos is surprisingly difficult to find online. Sites like Tattoo Johnny and Tattoofinder.com offer a few pieces of flash for sale, and free flash sites offer a few more choices. A better bet might be to find a tattoo artist who can create a unique piece of art, based on your own ideas. For inspiration, try Deviant Art. The site features several pages of creative, original art which could inspire strikingly beautiful phoenix tattoos. Just remember that these designs are copyrighted. You'll need permission from the artist if you want to recreate one of the drawings as a tattoo.
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