The Celts were an ancient people of the Iron Age (5th century B.C.) who traveled, settled and traded in salt throughout central Europe. 

   Celtic expansion beginning in 600 BC, it included Spain Italy and the British Isles finally reaching as far as Rome and Delphi in Greece.  Our knowledge of the Celts and their remarkable culture comes from both ancient writings and artifacts found in burial mounds first uncovered in the 19th century.

   During Caesar's Roman invasions (1st century B.C.), Celtic craftsmen adapted their ancient techniques to newer forms more suitable to the preferences of the emerging Roman market.  Traditional Celtic symbols appeared on new elaborate brooches, horse harnesses and camp cookware fashioned primarily of bronze with exquisite red, blue and white enamel. 

   When the Rome Empire including France and parts of England became Christian in 400 A.D. artisans reinterpreted and incorporated all manner of Celtic symbols into early church iconography.  Celtic symbols appeared in illuminated  manuscripts liturgical metalwork and religious articles of all kinds.

   The universal appeal of Celtic symbols has been remarkable.  These ancient symbols that bespoke of magic and power to the early Celts have survived transition upon transition and remain a presence in our spiritual and symbolic life today.

   Read more on CELTIC SYMBOLS.