| Celtic knotwork is an ancient tradition. It's origins can be traced back as far 500 BCE. Knotwork is found in many 7th to 9th century CE manuscripts filling borders and empty space. These intricate, artistic patterns are indeed masterpieces of craftsmanship; some taking months of work to perfect. A fabulous example of this beautiful illumination is the Book of Kells. This artwork is so stunningly beautiful in it's seeming simplicity - a single path that never terminates except within itself. Much of the Christian celtic knotwork we know of today has it's origins in pagan tradition. The popular animal designs have their origins in Saxon tradition. The earliest celtic knotwork, however, was typically spirals and similar designs. That is not to say that these patterns were simple, many complicated spiral patterns exist today in early manuscripts. To search for a single meaning for any one celtic symbol is nearly impossible. The meanings for each knot vary as much from country to another, as from one person to another. When the knots were first drawn the Celts gave no particular meaning for any symbol. However, you should always realize that the Celts felt that all life was interconnected, and these knots represent that particular belief. |
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In order to better understand how the celts drew these intricate masterpieces, you must first understand who they were and where they came from:
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Now, a little more on the symbology of celtic knotwork. There are several links here that propose meanings for each knot. I suggest, however, that you think of the main symbology as the interconnectedness of life. |
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Finally, here's the part I'm sure you've been looking for. You're saying to yourself, where the heck do I learn how to draw this stuff?? Well, here's a few links I've checked out and have found somewhat useful.
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