For example it is claimed in folklore that both Aphrodite who was the Greek Goddess of Love, and Venus who was Aphrodite’s Roman equivalent, revered the red rose. The red rose has religious connections and is symbolic of the Virgin Mary. The people who claim to have witnessed a vision of Mary say that her appearance is always accompanied by the smell of roses.
If you are considering having a rose tattoo design, but are reluctant to because of the romantic implications, don’t worry - I have seen many masculine guys wearing a rose tattoo, often as a reminder of departed loved ones. Some creative guys have even incorporated the rose into a multi-image tattoo such as having a snake curled around a dagger embedded in a rosebush.
English Roses
Here is a bit of history for you! Do you know why a beautiful English woman is typically referred to as “An English Rose”? Well it is related to some of Shakespeare’s writings where he refers to the red rose and compares his love (lady) with a red rose in the line, “O my love is like a red, red rose”.
As well as having a romantic connotation the rose is also reflective of more aggressive situations, for example, the image of roses are the family symbols of two of England’s famous and feuding families - the Lancasters (whose Family emblem is the red rose) and the Yorks (whose coat of arms is made up of white rose).
In addition to this one of Britain’s dominant political parties, the Labor Party, is symbolized by red roses.
Guns ‘N’ Roses
Another more masculine use of the rose tattoo design involves the 1980’s rock band ‘Guns ‘n’ Roses’, The members of the Band were well known for their hard rocking music and lifestyle yet they all wore tattoos incorporating the image of the rose albeit with tattoos of guns. As a result many fans both male and female emulated the band members by getting tattoos with images of guns and roses.
Rose Tattoo Designs – Choose Your Colors Wisely
The color of a rose has significance and meaning, so before you commit to a particular design you should choose the color that best represents the symbolism of your tattoo.
* A red rose embodies the conventional color choice and exemplifies beauty, love, bravery, passion and romanticism
* A red rose bud constitutes a symbol of pureness and loveliness
* A dark red rose stands for unconscious beauty
* A gold rose represents accomplishment
* A pink rose bespeaks friendship, appreciation, grace, happiness and gentleness
* A light pink rose symbolizes understanding and sweetness
* A white rose conveys sinlessness, innocence, silence, privacy, reverence, humbleness, youthfulness and charm
* A yellow rose personifies joyfulness, happiness, jealousy or an apology
* A lavender rose intends fascination
* A coral rose symbolizes desire
* A blue rose represents impossibilities
* A black rose traditionally represents sorrow and death
For those considering having a rose style tattoo, but are concerned that the design does not reflect their true way of life or image, just consider some of the historical facts regarding the rose and feel comfortable with having a tattoo incorporating a rose in the design.
