The Celts are those folks who originated from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, the Isle of Man and Brittany. These people contributed considerably throughout their lives to the arts, and their offerings are widely acknowledge, even in today's design and handicrafts. Celtic art avoids straight lines, and is ornamental in nature and only sometimes uses symmetrical forms.
Historians state that Celtic art 'avoids the imitation of nature or ideal of beauty central to the classical tradition'. Celtic art is seen to mirror complicated symbolism that borrows from a mixture of styles. In fact, it typically borrows and applies slightly altered design elements from a variety of cultures. This can be learned in the characteristic over-and-under interlacing which came about in the 6th century, although it was already used considerably by the Germanic people.
Although Celtic art appears to have a strong relation to animism and spiritual symbolism, no absolute meaning has been given to this original Celtic symbol; lost over the years is its meaning.
A significant and respected icon among Celtic designs is the traditional Celtic knot. Iconic in its ways to define and explain the timeless magic of Celtic art, the knot motif is frequently shown in the design of jewelry and in stone art, architecture, tattoos, manuscript design,and metal works. Avid travelers, the Celtic people left their artistry behind which was was symbolized in the Celtic Knot.
Celtic knots are seen in a multitude of designs and styles. These are often described by an 'endless' weaving in which there are no beginning or ending points that are obvious to the eye. Celtic knot designs were used by the Celts to enhance both manuscripts and Christian monuments. They can be seen in works like the eighth-century Book of Kells and Lindisfame Gospels. The Celtic knot is also commonly seen in illuminated manuscripts. They are delicate, and have intricate turns and twists which create patterns of form and symmetry that are quite beautiful.
Famous historian, J. Romilly Allen, acknowledged that there were altogether eight versions of Celtic knots. He further identified that these knots comprise the basis of nearly all interlaced patterns used in Celtic art and decoration. The Celtic knot's interwoven designs, called plaits, are, for the most part, identical to sixth-century European artwork. Throughout time, numerous archeological artifacts have been unearthed which reveal the historical nature and importance of the Celtic knot.
Some historians hold true to the belief that Celtic knots are not believed to hold obvious, identifiable, religious or philosophical meaning. In fact, the Celtic knot's intricacy and attention to its innate form is stated to mirror and duplicate the intricacy of all natural forms. The Celts developed their design including the intermingled delicate nature of Celtic knots, to be as intricate as possible just because they were able to do so. Historically-speaking, however, these knots are regarded as symbols of protection, able to keep away evil spirits. It comes as no surprise then that Wiccans recognize the Celtic knot as having a certain degree of magical properties and use this symbol frequently in charms and talismans.
Ornate, beautiful and intricate, Celtic knots are an art form unto themselves. The Celtic knot stands out as one of society's most significant and iconic designs attributed to Celtic culture, and upholds a deep worldwide and historical meaning in its representation and its symbolism.
Originally posted 2009-04-10 08:22:31. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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