What Are Blood Angels Angel's Tears
Blood Angels Angel's Tears refers to the iconic red wine-like substance in the Warhammer 40,000 universe, tied directly to the Blood Angels Space Marine Chapter. It is a fictional representation of the genetic flaw known as the Black Rage and the Red Thirst, which drives the Chapter's warriors to a constant state of bloodlust. The lore states that the Angel's Tears are the distilled essence of their fallen Primarch Sanguinius, offering a temporary release from the hunger that haunts them. This concept has become a central pillar of the Chapter's identity and is referenced across numerous novels, tabletop rules, and video games. The phrase has also become a popular search term among collectors looking for limited edition miniatures and merchandise tied to this specific lore element. For a broader look at the franchise's business side, you can visit the official Games Workshop investor relations page Games Workshop.
The term "Angel's Tears" is not just a narrative device but also a commercial brand used across various product lines. Games Workshop has released multiple resin and metal kits explicitly named for this substance, such as the Angel's Tears flask conversion sprues. These items are designed to be used as decorative bases or diorama pieces for Blood Angels armies. The collectible market for these miniatures has seen significant growth, with certain limited-run releases commanding high resale prices on secondary markets like eBay and specialist hobby stores. The lore connection gives these products a premium status compared to generic flask models, making them a key focus for dedicated collectors. This intersection of narrative and merchandise is a common strategy in modern tabletop gaming franchises.
Lore Origins and the Flaw
The origin of the Angel's Tears is deeply rooted in the Horus Heresy era, specifically the tragic death of Sanguinius during the Siege of Terra. According to the lore, the blood of the Primarch carries a divine purity that, when consumed, can soothe the madness of the Black Rage. The Red Thirst, a less severe but still constant craving for blood, is also linked to this genetic legacy. The Angel's Tears are often depicted as a sacred ritual among the Chapter's veterans, who seek out the flasks to momentarily transcend their curse. This narrative has been expanded in numerous novels by authors like Dan Abnett and Aaron Dembski-Bowden, cementing the lore's importance in the wider Warhammer 40k canon. The detailed lore is maintained across multiple media, which is why fans frequently search for the specific term to understand the Chapter's motivations.
The Flaw itself is a double-edged sword that defines the Blood Angels' gameplay and story arcs. The Black Rage causes uncontrollable rage, reverting affected Marines to a feral state, while the Red Thirst is an insatiable hunger for blood. The Angel's Tears serve as a symbolic and literal remedy within the fiction, though it cannot cure the Flaw permanently. This duality creates a tragic heroism that is central to the Chapter's appeal. The Flaw also influences the Chapter's battle tactics, as their desire to prove their worthiness often leads to aggressive, melee-focused strategies. Understanding this lore is essential for anyone looking to paint or field a Blood Angels army, as the Flaw dictates their unique rules and aesthetic choices in the tabletop game.
Collectible Market and Cultural Impact
The collectible market for Blood Angels-themed items, particularly those referencing the Angel's Tears, has expanded significantly with the release of new editions of the tabletop game. Limited edition flasks and display pieces are often produced in small runs, creating immediate demand among hobbyists and investors. The resale value of these items is influenced by their rarity and the current popularity of the Blood Angels Chapter within the competitive meta. Online communities and auction sites track these trends, with certain vintage or discontinued pieces seeing price surges. The cultural impact extends beyond