History of Celtic Tattoos

Tattoos have been important to many cultures over human history. Try to picture the sight of men covered in intricate tattoo patterns running and screaming at you in battle. That is what you would have seen thousands of years ago in a battle with Celtic warriors. The Celts used tattoos as a type of battle intimidation. They considered war the most important and honorable moment of their lives. They battled shirtless, and sometimes took their long hair and shaped it into spikes on their head or like the mane of a horse. (Venefica, 2010) Although the Celtic warriors had some intimidating tricks up their sleeves – or lack thereof (they fought naked) – the tattoo became one of their most important battle techniques. Although seeing their hair up in spikes must have been pretty intimidating as well . . .

The Celts used a plant called the Woad (Isatis tinctoria) to make their tattoos because it was wonderful for use as a blue dye. The leaves of the plant had to be picked and dried. In a method similar to making tea, they would heat the leaves in hot water to extract the dye. It was then cooked until it formed a paste that could be applied with something like a needle underneath the skin. (Venefica, 2010) The Celts were sometimes called Picts in areas of ancient Britain which means “painted ones” in Latin because of their use of tattoos. There were also other groups in Europe that used similar tattoos such as the Huns, Scythians, and the people of the Steppes. (Orvin, 1985)

There is still great debate about whether or not the Celts painted or tattooed themselves. More than likely, the Celts did use tattoos because it is an ancient art and ancient bodies found close to the Celtic time period were heavily tattooed. The Celts considered the Tree of Life to be one of their most important and sacred symbols. It was believed to symbolize wisdom and the otherworld, often thought to have been an oak tree because they were considered sacred. Celtic knot tattoos were also a favorite, they have loops that do not end – showing that the cycle of life and death never end. Celtic animal designs were very important in war and Roman historians mention the animal figures drawn on Celtic warriors in their texts. (Clanne Preachin, 2010) Celtic designs can be put together to form many interesting combinations. Sun and moon symbols, stars and skulls, etc., or just about any combination you think of can be used to represent a person’s feelings and beliefs. Not to mention, they look great on any part of the body.

The tattoo designs associated with the Celts today mostly come from Irish illuminated manuscripts. Celtic art is recognizable with its black color, knots, patterns with very intricate linework, and zoomorphism (animals). The Celtic cross has become very popular as well. Many people want to show their pride in their Celtic heritage, such as the Welsh and Irish, by getting a Celtic tattoo. The important thing to remember is that these designs are intricate and ornate and finding the right artist is essential. The designs are not simple and an experienced tattoo artist will be very necessary to get the proper effect.

Works Cited

Clanne Preachin. (2010). Retrieved january 14, 2010, from The Painted People: http://www.preachain.org/index.php?module=article&view=11

Orvin, L. (1985). House barra. Retrieved January 14, 2010, from Oh Woad is me!: http://housebarra.com/EP/ep04/10woad.html

United and kingdom and worldwide law. (2009). legends and chronicles. Retrieved january 14, 2010, from celtic warriors: http://www.legendsandchronicles.com/celtic-warriors/

Venefica, A. (2010). Whats your sign. Retrieved January 14, 2010, from The doorway to symbolism: http://www.whats-your-sign.com/celtic-tattoos.html