Celtic Tattoos - How to Pick the Right Tribal Celtic Tattoo for You

Celtic designs and traditions have been traced back thousands of years; evidence of their use has been dated from the Iron Age by archaeologists who have found evidence of their culture in manuscripts, paintings and metalwork. Celtic designs appear to have originated in Asia and traveled across Europe to Britain; examples have been found in all these areas. The designs from the Middles Ages have a definite Roman influence from evidence found in Ireland and other parts of Britain.

The use of filigree and interwoven patterns can be found in the book of Durrow, the Lindisfarne Gospels and also the famous Book of Kells. In the 10th century, silver became a popular medium, and there have been fine examples of silver brooches discovered.

Celtic designs have a universal appeal and have inspired jewellery, religious and body art through the ages and continue to do so in the present day. Two of the most common Celtic designs that are used as tattoo designs and body art are:

The Celtic Cross

This is perhaps the most recognized of all the Celtic designs. The Celtic cross first appeared as early as the Middle Ages. It is thought by historians to have its origins in pagan beliefs although it is now used as a symbol to represent Christian affiliations. The modern version of the Celtic cross was developed in the early centuries AD when beautiful examples were crafted for churches and gravestones, including huge ornate silver crosses for use in cathedrals.

The Celtic cross contains some of the signature elements of Celtic art, including intricate knotwork and unbroken circles. The unbroken circle in so many of the designs represents eternity and is popular in modern Irish wedding rings.

The Celtic Tree of Life

This design is not as ancient as the Celtic cross, having first been used by the Celts in the early years of Christianity. It also appears in the Book of Kells and can be seen carved in stone in Scotland and Northumberland. The Tree of Life represents the seven beings of plants, fish, insects, birds, reptiles, animals and man in Celtic culture.

Celtic art owes its perfection of form to the use of mathematical formulae that are behind their construction. This can be best seen in the knotwork spirals and key patterns that are an integral part of Celtic design and which make it such a popular choice for tattoo artists.