Celtic Knots Define The Symmetry of Celtic Patterns
Originating from Ireland, Cornwall, the Isle of Man, Scotland, Wales, and Brittany, the Celts contributed immensely throughout their existence to the arts. Their offerings to our society are largely recognized, even in the design and handicrafts of today. You’ll notice that Celtic art tends to avoid straight lines. It is ornamental in nature and only on occasion does it apply symmetry.
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.
Celtic art seems to have a bonding relationship to animism and spiritual symbolism, but no absolute meaning has been applied to this original Celtic symbol. Lost over the years is its meaning.
An important and well-regarded symbol thorughout all Celtic patterns is the traditional Celtic knot. This knot is iconic in its ability to define and describe the timeless beauty of Celtic art. The Celtic knot motif is often reflected in the design of jewelry and in stone art and metal works, architecture, manuscript design, and tattoos. The Celts traveled extensively and they left their artistic signature behind. This, we now know, was frequently symbolized in the Celtic Knot.
Viewed in many designs and styles are Celtic knots–a never-ending weaving in which there is neither a beginning nor an end point. Celtic knot designs adorned both manuscripts and Christian monuments alike. The Celtic crosses can be viewed in a variety of works such as the Book of Kells which dates from the 8th century, to the Lindisfame Gospels. Celtic knots are also commonly found in illuminated manuscripts. The knots are intricate, and have ornate twists and turns, making the designs of form and symmetry very attractive.
Famous historian, J. Romilly Allen, recognized eight versions of Celtic knots, and he identified that these knots constitute the origins of practically every interlaced pattern found in Celtic decorative art. The Celtic knot’s interwoven designs are called plaits, and the design is practically identical to European artwork of the 6th century. Throughout the ages, a multitude of archeological artifacts have been found which are adorned with the Celtic knot.
It is said by some historians that Celtic knots are not recognized to hold any obvious, identifiable philosophical or religious significance. That said, the Celtic knot’s intricacy and attention to detail and form is stated to mimic the intricacy of all Natural forms. To put it another way, the Celts constructed their design, including the interwoven intricacy of Celtic knots, to be as detailed as possible, simply because they were able and skilled enough to do so. From a historical perspective, however, Celtic knots are held as symbols of protection, and these knots ward off evil spirits according to popular belief. Wiccans also identify the Celtic knot as having a certain extent of magical properties and are frequently used as 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.
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