
Drawing on the immense popularity & the timeless appeal of Celtic ornaments, author David Balade, an acclaimed artist who created many drawings & paintings in the Celtic style, has chosen the most interesting, diverse & typical patterns & motifs of Celtic art for this beautifully designed practical & historical sourcebook. Starting with an illustrated introduction to the Celts & the development of Celtic art, all designs showcased in Designing Celtic Ornament are placed in their historical context. The chapters which follow examine the major patterns of Celtic ornamentation: spirals, interlacements, labyrinths & beasts. Each chapter opens with a general introduction to the elements of the pattern & is followed by the many modifications it underwent during the ages. A short introduction to each variation with illustrated examples from magnificent manuscripts such as the Book of Kells, The Book of Durrow or the Lindisfarne Gospels explains the specific characteristics of a certain pattern, how it was created & what it symbolised. More than 200 of the depicted designs can be reproduced & applied to contemporary work. The final chapter gives easy to follow step-by-step instructions for replicating twenty of the most beautiful motifs to be found in this exquisite collection of Celtic ornaments. Designing Celtic Ornament not only explores the history & symbolism of the most popular Celtic motifs, but also provides a fantastic & ideal resource for artists, designers & crafters working in all media.