Lion and Cross Tattoo
A front-facing lion holding or guarding a cross: courage and faith in one strong, symmetrical piece.
- Style
- Realism
- Joined
- Guarding
- Placement
- Forearm
Opens Tattoo Fusion with these choices. Change the style, placement or what it means to you; every design is new.
What a lion and cross tattoo means
The lion stands for courage and leadership, and in Christian tradition for Christ as the Lion of Judah. The cross stands for faith and sacrifice. Together they speak of strength that comes from faith, or of a protector of family and belief. Many people choose it as their first religious tattoo because it is bold rather than delicate.
- LionCourage and leadership
- CrossFaith and sacrifice
Where to put it
A front-facing lion is symmetrical, so it works centred on the forearm, the chest or between the shoulder blades. A forearm version should be at least 15 cm long to keep the mane detail.
Tips for the design
- A front-facing lion looks calmer and stronger than one in profile.
- Let the paws hold the cross so the two belong to one piece.
- Filigree or knotwork around them can fill the gaps without a background shape.
Try it in another style
Questions
What does a lion and cross tattoo mean?
Courage rooted in faith. In Christian symbolism the lion also stands for Christ, the Lion of Judah, so the pair is a strong statement of belief.
Can I add a verse to a lion and cross tattoo?
Yes. Leave space under the lion and make the lettering separately with the tattoo font generator, so the spelling is exactly right.
