by Thom C
Celtic tattoos have their roots in Celtic history. These signs and symbols not only provide a glimpse into Celtic values but are also popular for their beauty, mysticism, and as a way for many to celebrate Celtic heritage. Additionally, they are popular among those who wish to honor and embrace the meanings behind these symbols.
Tribal Tattoos
While Celtic tattoos embody various forms of objects worshipped, revered, and admired in ancient times, perhaps the most significant of all tattoos are those that take the shape of tribal designs.
Celtic warriors did not go to war without tattoos; however, it is unclear whether these were tattoos as we know them today. The Latin root of the term Picts means ‘painted ones,’ and the Celts adopted similar war tactics of painting their bodies to intimidate their enemies. For the Celts, going to battle was a great honor. They faced their enemies almost entirely naked or at least with bare chests, which served as another form of intimidation while also allowing them to display their tattoos prominently.
The Celts used the Woad plant for tattooing. The leaves were harvested, dried, boiled, strained, and boiled again. The final product was a blue viscous or wet fluid. The Celts used this Woad paste to tap into their skin with a needle-like instrument, pushing the dye beneath the skin layers. The result was a distinctively tattooed blue warrior.
Tribal Symbols
Apart from scaring off their enemies, the symbols used by the Celts in their tribal tattoos were designed to capture their warrior spirit, faith, courage, and bravery. Celtic symbolism drew from the elements around them, particularly animals they encountered in their daily lives and admired for their unique qualities. The arrow, however, was a prevalent tattoo among the warriors. The arrow signified the concept of ‘Celtic brothers of the arrow’ in war. The arrow symbolized individual strength and unity among brothers – those who fought and died together, signifying that each had the same warrior spirit as the others.
In the heat of battle, men from different backgrounds bonded as brothers. The Celtic arrow tattoo also represents the inner strength required to be a successful warrior.
When the arrow was combined with a sun shape, it symbolized the piercing power the ancient Celts associated with the sun’s energy.
Animals
Celtic animal symbols provided potent symbolism for the ancients and were frequently used to depict their lives and histories. They were also used individually by warriors to represent their personalities or as a means of acquiring the qualities of that animal, such as courage, strength, or instilling fear. The ancient Celts called upon the spirit of these animal symbols to provide these attributes.
The Celtic bull was highly revered among the ancients, mainly for its strong will and unwavering, unyielding characteristics.
Bears and bear claws symbolized power.
The lion represented strength and nobility.
Crows and ravens were also linked to battle.
The horse signified guidance, protection, and strength.
The dragon represented a formidable opponent.
Griffins, composed of part lion and part eagle, were considered guardians and protectors of life. They also symbolized nobility and strength among their positive traits. The griffin tattoo was only used when the wearer sought the attention of the most powerful gods.
However, animal symbols were not the only ones used. The ancient spiral designs were said to increase strength and confuse the enemy.
Rune symbols were also employed in tribal tattoos; for example, the Ken Rune symbolizes a fierce warrior and was used to invoke the god of war for assistance in battle.
The ancient Ogham symbols (Celtic lettering) were used for their power and significance, with the oak tree, for instance, representing strength and stability. The symbol for the oak tree is called a Duir, and the druids believed that this symbol served as a conduit for cosmic energy. When accessed, this energy could be unleashed on the battlefield.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME
Never heard about Celtic tattoos. Loved to know about it. And nice article. Thanks for sharing.