movies; it was that of Professor Dumbledore's magnificent pet - the Phoenix. This bird, which is represented in many different cultures, can also be found in abundance of the backs of tattoo aficionados. Why on the back, I am not too sure, but it seems like the proper place for such an exuberant, mythical creature!The phoenix of Egyptian mythology speaks of an ancient bird that cry was so soulful and beautiful that it could captivate humans in a purely magical way. The creature is said to have lived in the desert for 500 years before it would consume itself in a blaze of fire. Then, from its own ashes, it would be reborn to live another 500 years! As it flew through the skies above, it could leave a trail of fire, thus alerting all to its presence.
The phoenix of Chinese origin was composed much like other Chinese creatures - out of parts of other (more widely known and recognized) animals. It was said to have the head of a pheasant, a comb on top of its head (the red, floppy part of a rooster), the beak of a bird (specifically a swallow), the neck of a tortoise, and flame-like appendages (those appendages were similar to that of a common bird). It was an imaginary animal considered a bird of good luck and longevity. (Really, is there anything Chinese that is not considered THAT?!) The phoenix of China was meant to have several different colors of feathers. They were red, yellow, black, blue, and white. All colors contained the hidden virtues. Red stands for a long life and good luck; yellow is for protection against evil; black is for self-cultivation; blue is for knowledge; white is for peace and purity.
Many people tend to do what I feel I have done, as far as the Chinese culture is concerned. Lost in our own mutt-like heritages, we grasp for the beauty and intense values that revolve around both the language and the life that is its ancient culture. In the unending search to belong to something greater (that is, if religion is not much of an option that you are interested in), the Chinese proverbs and drops of wisdom that encompass many of the mythical creatures (phoenix, dragons, etc.) is truly appealing when trying to fill that void. Sorry about that - I seemed to have dropped into an abyss of deep thoughts!
With so many tattoo designs around it can be somewhat bewildering trying to figure out which one is right for you. There are many factors to take into account but, essentially, the most important factor is decoding the meaning behind the tattoo design. Ask yourself, "What does this design represent?" It's true that some tattoos are loads of fun and don't really have any significance - nothing wrong with that! But a phoenix tattoo doesn't really fall into that category. A phoenix tattoo design has a definite purpose and significance which you need to know about before going ahead and getting this tattoo design inked.
The Magnificent Phoenix
So who or what is the phoenix? Well, this mythological bird is extremely mystical and enigmatic. Because of this, it is a very popular motif in tattoo artwork around the world. This bird's origins are believed to lie in the ancient country of Ethiopia in Africa. The bird's name is connected with 'fire' and the color 'red.'
Amongst other ideas, the phoenix incorporates notions of life, rebirth and renewal. This is a great symbol for 'starting again' or 'washing away the old.' If you are contemplating a phoenix bird tattoo you need to take these values into account. Also, a phoenix bird of fire tattoo must be of sufficient size to make an impact. This is a magnificent bird and deserves respect - size is important. You simply can't represent the idea of eternal life and rebirth with a small tattoo!
Finding a Suitable Design
If you have made up your mind to get a phoenix tattoo design, the next stage in your planning should involve research into finding a suitable design. There are hundreds (if not thousands) of tattoo galleries, both online and offline, from which you can choose your perfect phoenix tattoo. These galleries are usually full of color and are a pleasant way to while away the time as you make up your mind. However, try not to get too distracted by the dozens of alternative designs available. Stick to the phoenix design!
Vitally important in your final decision should be the color and size; you have to like the design, but it also has to coordinate and blend and all these elements must match if your design is to be esthetically pleasing. A balance is, therefore, needed: not too many similar or contrasting colors. Your tattoo will be with you for a long, long time so make sure it doesn't look awkward or out of place.
Finally, once you've decided on a phoenix tattoo design, you should spend a good deal of time with your chosen tattoo artist and explain exactly what it is that you are looking for and maybe even suggest a few alternate phoenix designs. Who knows, between you both you may come up with a new 'hybrid' phoenix design. It's a big decision, so take your time and 'live' with the various designs for a period of time before finally having it inked.
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