The Symbolism Of Cats

Being stoic, silent and mysterious cat represented the guardian of the Underworld (Otherworld) keeping their secrets to themselves. They were considered the guardian of souls, their eyes the windows to the other world. The cat teaches us that the physical and spiritual worlds are not separate, but one.The Ancient Celts believed that the cat will brings us to wholeness and acts as a spiritual link between humans and the universe.  In the Celtic world black cats were considered evil, and were sacrificed. However, the Celtic cat received much respect. Other mythic reference to cats is, that they are able to shapeshift into a ball of fire. Cats have been linked with mystery, spirituality and seduction since the days of the ancient Egypt.

Celtic Luckenbooth Brooch

Luckenbooths were shops in Edinburgh,  they were the first permanent shops that housed jewellery workers and other trades in the city. The Luckenbooth Brooch is worn as a symbol of eternal love in Scotland, dating back to the 17th century it was traditionally exchanged between lovers on betrothal. The crown is symbolizing loyalty. It has figures very similar to the Claddagh Ring, and a similar purpose of being a love token. The luckenbooth brooch is probably the most romantic and lovely type of brooch in Scotland's history,  a timeless symbol of young love's promise. From the eighteenth century forwards small plain heart shaped brooches were worn to protect against evil spirits, the evil eye. Even today it is still a very popular gift for weddings for many Scots.  

The Mystique Of The Maze Patterns

Maze designs  (also called Key Patterns) are designs that have paralell lines in them so that they create a maze. These patterns look almost like angular spirals, may range from a few simple turns to complex labyrinth type designs and associated with the goddess. Celtic Maze patterns originate in early Celtic developments in stone and metal work, and later in medieval Insular art. Celtic Mazes have been used as an aid to meditation and prayer for centuries. The maze patterns also include the so called step patterns and are symbolizing the journey that we all take on the long road of life. It can, for example be a labyrinth which represents the path of your learning and your experiences. They have also found a place worth mentioning in the Celtic tattoo designs and the beauty and simplicity make them an ideal introduction to Celtic art.