Celtic Tattoo Design

Celtic Tattoo Design image

When you first think of the word Celtic or Celtic tattoo design, what comes to mind? Do you think of something European, mysterious, or maybe those long haired, fair skinned woman with the angelic voices who star on the PBS specials.

Well, if you're not exactly sure, then I think it best to look at the meaning behind Celtic tattoo designs for women.

The Celtic culture is an ancient one dating back well over 2700 years, and is still a force today, more specifically noted for its art, music, and spirituality. Because of that rich history and tradition it is as relevant today as was then, and is the principal reason for the popularity of the Celtic tattoo design.

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Keeping up with the times, the traditional Celtic art form has evolved from its early geometric designs, and spirals of yesteryear, to the intricate, hypnotic Celtic designs of today.

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Some of the finest examples of Celtic art were done for the church. Withstanding the test of time, these beautifully designed pieces, complete with their intricate, interlaced patterns, knot work, and spirals, are still visible today.

Many aspects of the Celtic culture are still evident today, and anyone who has a heritage dating back to the early central, western, or northwestern Europe, is part of that tradition, and is connected in today's multicultural world.

So if you looking for a reason, other than the intricate designs and flowing spirals, look no further than the Celtic tattoo styles. Chances are your part of this rich heritage.

Celtic art dates back to 700 BC. These early pieces were mainly simple geometric designs. By the time 450 BC rolled around, floral patterns, more curves, animal and human faces, were hidden in the designs.

400 AD marked the early signs of Christian influence with the spirals becoming more uniform, and the faces and the animals, becoming more visible.

The Christian influence was in full swing by 750 AD. The now complex designs can be found in gold, silver, and jewelry. The designs are smaller, the images are becoming mixed with spirals and knot work. This style continued to improve over time and to this day.

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Today, the Celtic tattoo design is interlaced with single, or multiple strands, either braided or woven. The most popular knot is the three pointed trinity. Another popular knot is the lovers knot consisting of two strands woven together and representing togetherness.

Although the styles vary, the theme remains the same. Interlaced spirals and patterns woven together and connected, seemingly with no beginning or end, and this works perfectly for today's Celtic tattoo designs for women.

One of the more interesting variations of the Celtic tattoo design is the zoomorphic image, and is best illustrated as animals twisted upon themselves, with tails and other body parts woven in and out of each other.

This is just a very brief explanation of Celtic history and how it relates to todays Celtic tattoo designs, and really doesn't give it due justice. There are books upon books available if your further interested.

One final note on that burning meaning behind the many different Celtic designs: There aren’t any; the art form was appreciated for the art itself, and stands alone, nothing more, so just go with what appeals to you and good luck with your Celtic tattoo design.

Thanks for stopping by feminine tattoo designs at Angel Heart Tattoo. Be sure to check out Dolphin tattoo designs next.