Celtic Patterns Guide

The Celts--those who originated from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man and Brittany--contributed greatly throughout their history to the arts, and their contributions are well-known even in modern-day design and handicrafts.  Celtic art is ornamental; it avoids straight lines and only occasionally using symmetry.

It it said that Celtic art 'avoids the imitation of nature or ideal of beauty central to the classical tradition'. But as far as we know, Celtic art frequently reflects complex symbolism which employ a variety of styles.  For example, it often borrows and uses slightly modified design elements from other cultures, such as the characteristic over-and-under interlacing (weaving), which only arrived in the 6th century although already being used extensively by neighboring Germanic people.  Although Celtic art bears a strong relation to animism and spiritual symbolism, no concrete meaning has been given to this unique Celtic symbol; the meaning seems to have become lost over the years.

One of the most well-recognized and regarded symbols among the Celtic patterns is the Celtic knot.  The Celtic knot is iconic in its ability to define the classic beauty of Celtic art.  This timeless motif is often reflected in jewelry design, stone art and metal works, manuscript design, architecture...even tattoos!  Wherever the Celts roamed, they left their artistic "calling card" behind, and this was often reflected in the Celtic Knot.

Celtic knots come in a variety of designs and styles and are often characterized by an 'endless' weaving in which there are no discernable beginning or ending points.  The knot designs were adopted by the Celts to adorn Christian monuments and manuscripts like the eighth-century Book of Kells and Lindisfame Gospels.  In illuminated manuscripts, the Celtic knot is prevalent; they are delicate, having intricate twists and turns which create a beautiful pattern of form and symmetry.  J. Romilly Allen identified eight basic knots which comprise the foundation of almost all the interlaced patterns found in Celtic decorative art. The interwoven designs of the Celtic knot are referred to as "plaits" and are close in design to artwork found in 6th century Europe. Through the years, many archeological artifacts decorated with the Celtic knot, have also been discovered.

Some historians say that the Celtic knot is not known to have any clearly identified philosophical or religious significance, although its intricacy and attention to detail and form is said to reflect the intricacy of all Natural forms.  In other words, the Celts intentionally made their design, including the interwoven intricacy of the Celtic knot, as detailed as possible, in part, because they were skilled and capable of doing so.  However, from a historical perspective, knots are considered a symbol of protection, and these knots were once believed to ward off evil spirits. The Wiccans also recognize the Celtic knot as having some degree of magical properties. Even today, Celtic knots are often used as charms and talismans.

The Celtic knot:  beautiful, ornate, and intricate. It's no wonder this art form endures as one of the world's most identifiable Celtic patterns, holding deep global and historical iconic symbolism.