The ancient Celts were known to impart the knowledge of the art of Celtic tattooing orally and there aren’t any written records. However, it is believed that traditionally, artists used tools made of bronze and copper that were often unpolished. In those times, tattoos were considered the right of the rich and affluent class, who suddenly lost vital support and landed up with the commoners. Despite the immense popularity of the designs of Celtic cross tattoos and Celtic knot tattoos, there is little evidence regarding the history of Celtic tattoos.
The Celtic knot tattoo designs are very decorative on the surface, but at their roots are very culturally significant and deeply symbolic. The Celtic knot is any of eight decorative knots with alternating over-and-under construction, originating in pre-Christian times and found in manuscripts and on monuments.
Celtic tattoos are becoming the choice for many new and old tattoo enthusiasts. Celtic knot tattoos are tattoos that originated in Wales, Ireland, and Scotland. Though most are associated with the clan or tribe a person is with, each design has a special meaning in Celtic tradition and that meaning can be portrayed as a tattoo. The Celtic knot tattoo has various designs, but what is common is that is an intricate design of a rope or knot that does not have a beginning or an end. It is a continuous loop that loops to nowhere. The loops intertwine but do not seem connected to each other. Each loop in independent and may have a different shape than the loop it is intertwined with. When searching for a Celtic knot design you need to think about the significance of that design. Whether you are a traditionalist trying to capture a bit of your ancestry or you are just a consumer who loves the design, the meaning can convey more importance than most people realize. For example if your Celtic knot tattoo has a horse in it, there are many meanings for which that horse might represent. The horse is a symbol of power. Either physical or mental, the horse symbol can give the Celtic knot tattoo wearer a talisman to create enter power or let the world know that they are a creature of power. The horse also renders the idea of magic and prophecy in the Celtic world. Unicorns are apart of the horse family and when a unicorn was seen good or evil things were to follow. The unicorn has passed this power to the horse and the Celtic knot tattoo owner will also carry this legend with them. The horse is also the transporter to the otherworld. This meaning is a little dark for most, but if you Celtic knot tattoo is done properly, the more positive aspects of the symbol of the horse will come out.
When a pentacle is interlaced within Celtic knot tattoo, the idea of paganism comes to mind. The pentacle represents the earth, air, water, fire, and spirit. The pentacle in the Celtic knot tattoo can be traced through the ‘Book of Kell’ as the foundation of most pagan religions practiced today. Though this symbol is misrepresented as the sign of the devil and satanic worship it still holds the importance of the five elements of nature that are abundant in Celtic culture.
So be careful in what Celtic tattoo you choose for yourself. The common man in the United States might not know what the symbols mean, but with a growing awareness of Celtic culture in this country, you might not want to misrepresent yourself because you thought the Celtic knot tattoo pattern was pretty. Do some research on the Internet or ask your local tattoo artist. Most who do Celtic knot tattoo design will have personal knowledge or some reference to help you pick out the design that will empower your self image and show the world that art that you chose.
