Celtic Tattoos

The history of the Celts traces back thousands of years ago. The Celts displayed their skills in complex artwork particularly metal, jewelry and weapons as they were regarded as fierce warriors by the Romans. Modern Celts have evolved symbols for themselves. In the North American, Celts often wear these symbols to show that they are of Celtic descent. The ancient Celts passed their knowledge orally and didn't keep many written records. Consequently, there is little evidence of their tattooing skills remaining even though Celtic cross tattoos and Celtic know tattoos are very popular designs. Most of Celtic tattoo designs are taken from the Irish Illuminated Manuscripts. This is a much later time period than the height of Celtic tattooing. Designs from ancient stone and metal work are more likely to be from the same time period as Celtic tattooing.

Celtic knot tattoos are usually loops with no end or beginning symbolizing the never ending cycle of death and rebirth. Celtic animal designs are similar in construction but the cords terminate in feet, heads, or tails. Pure knots are usually unending, unless the end of a strand is stylized into a zoomorphic element or a spiral.

Celtic knot work’s meaning defies literal translation. It is to be found at a deeper level. The repeated crossing of the physical and the spiritual are expressed in interlace of the knots. The never ending path of the strands may represent the permanence and the continuum of life, love and faith. It may be the reason why Celtic tattoos have become so popular.

For people who have a Celtic heritage, getting a Celtic design can be a way of expressing pride in their heritage by reaffirming an affinity the indigenous artistic style of their ancestors. They are usually not easy to designs. Not all tattoo artists have the eye for detail and exacting line placement needed to draw the intricate patterns particular to Celtic art. Make sure to choose an excellent tattoo artist for Celtic tattoo design.