Celts

The Celts were peoples of ancient Europe linked by Celtic languages, rather than one united nation. Flowing curves, spirals and three-armed triskeles became distinctive parts of their decorative art.

Roman writers described druids as religious specialists. Caesar gave a chilling account from Gaul: enormous figures woven from branches were filled with people and set on fire. This became the famous wicker man story. It is a Roman report, not proof of a custom shared by all Celtic communities.

Centuries later, Christian makers in Ireland and Britain created rich manuscript decoration. Knotted ribbons, animals and elaborate letters filled pages, turning written words into striking images.

The Lindisfarne Gospels, made around AD 700, and the Book of Kells, around AD 800, are celebrated examples. Their patterns connect with a wider world of craft and ornament, although the manuscripts belong to a later Christian history rather than directly to the druids.