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Celtic Beasts

By Courtney Davis
& Dennis O'Neill
Published by Blandford Press
(1999)
ISBN 0-7137-2727-6

In this visually stunning book, the acclaimed modern Celtic artist Courtney Davis traces the origins, styles, motifs and development of the use of animals in Celtic art, illustration, decoration and design. The early Celts were a people profoundly connected with the turning of the seasons, the natural world, and the creatures they encountered there. The beasts of the fields and forests, the birds in the air and the fishes in the oceans and rivers were all significant to the Celts, not only in terms of their basic survival, but also for their highly developed spiritual life. It is not surprising, therefore, that depictions of animals and zoomorphic images became an intrinsic part of the complex designs of Celtic art. This is particularly apparent in the decorations and designs of the great classic illuminated gospels and manuscripts, which arguably form the finest flowering of traditional Celtic art. Even after the arrival of Christianity, and largely through the ministry of the early saints such as St.Patrick, the Celts never lost their respect for the living world, nor appreciated less the wonders they saw in nature. Animals that had once been their spirit guides were now accorded places in the holiest of manuscripts. Indeed, the ancient Celtic practice of shape shifting (the invoking of animal spirits with masks and dancing) has survived through to the twentieth century in both modern shamanic practice and mainstream festivals such as Halloween. With nearly 100 black and white illustrations, and eight specially commissioned color paintings, all by Courtney Davis, Celtic Beasts is a spectacular celebration of the significant role that animals play in Celtic art. Alongside the extensive commentary, written jointly by Courtney Davis and Celtic specialist Father Dennis O'Neill, this book will inform, educate and inspire. A fascinating and superbly illustrated book, which shows how animals were portrayed in Celtic art. The text covers styles and motifs as well as Celtic stories, traditions and symbolism, from pagan beginnings to the Christian era. Expertly and lavishly illustrated throughout in black and white, and with eight specially commissioned color paintings, all by Courtney Davis, the leading contemporary artist working in the Celtic manner. A companion to the previous titles, Celtic Borders and Decorations, Celtic Ornament and Celtic Initials and Alphabets. A must for all those interested in Celtic art, design and history.

A4 hardback - contains 96 pages of B/W illustrations
and 8 color plates

This version is now out of print, but you can purchase a limited
edition signed version from Awen Press here.