Celtic Tattoos from The Book of Kells
"The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript gospel book in Latin. It was created in a Columban monastery in Ireland or may have had contributions from various Columban institutions from both Britain and Ireland. It is believed to have been created c. 800 CE. It is a masterwork of Western calligraphy and represents the pinnacle of Insular illumination. It is also widely regarded as Ireland's finest national treasure.
The illustrations and ornamentation of the Book of Kells surpass that of other Insular Gospel books in extravagance and complexity. The decoration combines traditional Christian iconography with the ornate swirling motifs typical of Insular art. Figures of humans, animals and mythical beasts, together with Celtic knots and interlacing patterns in vibrant colours, enliven the manuscript's pages."
Below are pages . . . tattoos . . . page order . . .
Folio 2 verso
Folio 3 verso
Folio 5 recto
Folio 19 verso
Folio 27 verso
Folio 28 verso
Folio 29 recto
Folio 32 verso
Folio 34 recto
Folio 48 recto
Folio 111 recto
Folio 122 recto
Folio 124 recto
Folio 183 recto
Folio 203 recto
Folio 209 verso