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The sacred grove, or nemeton, is a Celtic design that essentially represents a place of open air worship and the center of the ancient religion, Druidism. Without formal temples, the grove served the same purpose as a house of worship. Nemetona was the Celtic goddess guardian of the grove. The word "druid" means "knowing the oak tree."

The sacred HEART is one of the most popular tattoos done in the West. The image of JESUS'S heart, which represents his great and sacrificial love for mankind, is venerated as an object of de- votion in the Roman Catholic Church. Many variations have been created but the essential characteristics often depicted are a wounded heart encircled by a CROWN of thorns and radiating light. Tattoo versions will frequently include FLAMES of passion and may represent the heart in a number of ways: in a flat two-dimensional view, as a realistic organ, or as a sort of three-dimensional spouted flask.

Unlike the male SAILOR, the sailor girl is strictly pinup material. Although she might wear the white cap and a pinafored uniform, it is not unusual for the neckline to be cut low and the whole outfit to be quite tight-fitting.

Part of maritime tattoo, the image of a sailor usually occurs in conjunction with other naval themes perhaps he rides a SHARK or cavorts with a pinup girl.

Sometimes the sailor's grave symbol includes an ANCHOR or a perching, spread EAGLE. but its defining characteristic is the sinking ship, still partially visible above the surface of the WATER. The design stems from a long tradition of sailor memorials and it commemorates the men and ships that have been lost at sea. This type of design, and others of the maritime school, are typically done with heavy outlines, bright colors, and dark shading.

This Coptic Tattoo design illustrates a theme little known in Christian art. It shows a haloed saint riding a HORSE, Copticholding the reins in his right hand,with a haloed child riding behind him. In his left hand he holds a scepter or SPEAR with a cross. The Coptic interpretation of the design is that it represents Mar Corios, a soldier born during the reign of the Roman emperor Diocletian (C.E. 245-316), known for persecution of Christians. The soldier was challenged by his captain, who learned that he had been converted to Christianity, and he replied that he did not believe "in Roman things." He was martyred defending his faith. The child is his servant, who was martyred with him.