Even the most elaborate Celtic pattern boils down to a few basic motifs (including spirals, swastikas, circles, "s" curves, knots, tau crosses, sun signs, etc.). This lavishly illustrated handbook of over 600 designs offers a key to the intricacies of Celtic decoration, showing how the judicious use of these simple symbols, motifs, or ideographs can be used to develop newer and more ambitious patterns to meet the requirements of modern decorative art. Over 600 black-and-white illus.

Noted artist and best-selling author Courtney Davis celebrates the intricate artistry of the great Celtic Christian scribes. Early Celtic artists drew upon ancient traditions to design exquisitely patterned jewelry, metalwork, and carvings. With the arrival of Celtic Christianity, their focus turned to the glorification of God, seen in magnificently illustrated manuscripts such as the Book of Kells. Drawing upon these two historical traditions, Davis offers a fresh look at Celtic ornamentation, using examples from famous manuscripts, gospels, and other works. "A very useful source for artists."--Library Journal.

Drawing on the immense popularity and the timeless appeal of Celtic ornaments, David Balade has chosen the most interesting, diverse and typical patterns and motifs of Celtic art for this practical and historical sourcebook.