Irish Harp

Harp Tattoos and Tattoo Designs

Thursday 15th of January 2009 08:46:10 PM [Add To This Article]

The harp is a stringed instrument, which has the plane of its strings positioned perpendicular to the soundcard. You can play a harp on your lap or while it stands on the floor. Since the harp has developed independently in many different part of the world, it is often theorized that it may have developed from the sounds ancient man heard when he plucked his bowstring. In ancient times, harps were very popular in the nearly all musical cultures but they have become less common in recent times.

The harp has also been used as political symbol for Ireland for centuries. It features on Ireland's "Green Flag", a flag with a deep green background and a golden harp in front. Dagda, the supreme god of Irish mythology, carried a Harp along with a cauldron and club. When he played it, the seasons were sure to proceed in their correct order. In Celtic society, every clan would have a resident harp player (or Planxties) who would write songs in honor of the leader. The harp even appeared on the Irish coins from the Middle Ages until the current euro system was adopted. The internationally famous Guinness beer brand uses a harp in some of its branding in an effort to remind drinkers that Guinness is Irish.

Harp tattoos are associated with people and theme of Irish descent. A harp tattoo represents the beauty and mysticism of Irish music and poetry. It can symbolize independence, loyalty and pride as well as all things Irish.