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.

A significant and respected symbol throughout Celtic patterns is the traditional Celtic knot. The Celtic knot is iconic in its ways to define and explain the timeless magic of Celtic art. The Celtic knot motif is often shown in the design of jewelry and in stone art, manuscript design, architecture, tattoos, and metal works. The Celtic people traveled considerably and they left their artistry behind. This, obviously, was symbolized in the Celtic Knot.

Seen in a multitude of designs and styles are Celtic knots. 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 applied by the Celts to enlighten both manuscripts and Christian monuments. These crosses can be seen in works like the Book of Kells from the 8th century, and Lindisfame Gospels. Celtic knots are also frequently seen in illuminated manuscripts. These knots are delicate, having ornate twists and turns which make patterns of form and symmetry that are quite 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.

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.

The Celtic knot is intricate, beautiful and ornate, so it’s without question how this art form shines as one of the world’s most recognizable patterns of Celtic culture, maintaining deep global and historical iconic symbolism.