Though a casual observer of a Celtic knot tattoo may see it as merely a piece of beautiful body art; the meaning of this Celtic symbol has much deeper roots. Most Celtic knots are of a rich design of spirals, mazes along with knots. The Book of Kells, the famous Irish book is where most of today's tattoo artists get their inspiration for the body art requested by those wishing to display their Celtic heritage.
The Book of Kells
Irish monks circa 800 AD produced a manuscript with illustrations that were ornate and lavish. The Book or Kells is said to be one of the most lavish manuscripts that survive from this early time period. County Meath found in Ireland is where the manuscript was housed for most of the medieval period. Its name is derived from Kelis and the Abbey of Kells in County Meath.
Scandinavian Influences on the Celtic Knot Tattoo
Because of conquest and trade, the influence of Norse symbolism is said to have some bearing on the Celtic knotwork. The exact origins of the Celtic knot tattoo are still open for debate. The Celtic knot tattoo typically shows neither beginning nor an end and reflects the cycles of life as well as the seasons.
Celtic knot tattoos are popular even among people that have no ties to Celtic ancestry. They are beautiful pieces and many wear them simply for their visual beauty.
Body art is a personal decision and what you have displayed on your body is often a close and long held belief. Tattoos are a way of showing the world what you believe in or who you love. Celtic knot tattoos are very popular for both young and old and male or female. Take a look at the many Celtic knot tattoo designs and decide on the ideal one for you.
