Lantern tattoo is quite a popular design. For a person that doesn’t have much knowledge about tattoo symbols, it may seem like an odd choice. But, they are popular not only because they look nice, but also due to the meaning they have. If you are thinking of getting this tattoo, then keep reading, because we have gathered the most beautiful ideas.
Lantern – a long forgotten object
For hundreds of years, this was the best and the only way to have a portable lighting source. The lantern has a protective enclosure which allowed to keep the candle or the oil burning for some time.
But as an every-day-used object, it has lost its purpose long ago. As soon as people started using electricity, they threw lanterns and oil lamps away. Nowadays people use it only as a decoration in their homes. Also in some cases – as a backup lighting source. And today, it is hard to find a house that still uses it for the lighting.
But, the lanterns are still alive in many cities. You can find it in most of Europe’s old towns. They are also very popular in the streets of China and Japan. Of course, all of them are electric. But there are still many places around the world, where the installation of electricity is either impossible or costs too much. Thus, the people have no other choice then to use the oil-based lamps and lanterns.
Lantern tattoo meaning
Generally, it is a symbol of a light that guides a person in the darkness to find his way out. When it lights up, it destroys all the struggles and difficulties that happened. It helps us to discover the purpose and meaning of life. The lantern also personifies the battle between darkness and light.
Also, there are different types, and they all have various meanings. For example, the Jack-o’-lantern is a symbol of protection against the evil forces.
The street lantern symbolizes the strength of the character. Even in the most terrible weather, the lamp still shines. Also, it attracts bright ideas and thoughts. It spreads the light and guides others through the darkness.
A lantern with a candle inside indicates the owner’s inner strength. It personifies the human life. Glass around the lamp protects it from being blown by a gust of wind. But eventually, the time will come, and the candle will burn out.
Another profound meaning of it is the learning of new things. After all, many medieval scientists, alchemists, and philosophers created their masterpieces at night with such lamps.
Lantern tattoo ideas
All in all, if you want the tattoo just for the looks – that’s ok. There is no need to avoid getting a particular tattoo just because you don’t have any explanation for it. After all, these days we don’t trust symbols as much as people did in the past. Just make sure you pick a professional artist and the right design!
