Celtic Art in Pagan and Christian Times

By J. Romilly Allen

Book Overview

"Celtic art in Pagan and Christian times" by J. Romilly Allen is a foundational study offering a comprehensive exploration of the enduring artistic heritage of the Celtic peoples. This authoritative work meticulously traces the evolution of Celtic art across a significant span of ancient and medieval history, revealing its profound transformations and continuities.

Delving into the rich tapestry of Celtic design, Allen examines its intricate forms and powerful symbolism from its enigmatic Pagan origins through to its vibrant flourishing in the early Christian era. The book illuminates how artistic expressions adapted and thrived, whether reflecting spiritual beliefs of Pagan art or manifesting in the sophisticated illuminated manuscripts, monumental crosses, and metalwork of early Christian times.

As a cornerstone of art historical scholarship, this volume provides invaluable insights into the cultural and religious currents that shaped one of Europe's most distinctive artistic traditions. It is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in European art history, ancient and medieval history, or the profound interplay between art and faith in the Celtic world.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025248597
• ISBN13: 9781025248592
• Release Date: December 2025
• Publisher: Anson Street Press
• Length: 632 Pages
• Weight: 2.32 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 6.1" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

A Classic, For Good Reason

This book represents J. Romilly Allen's attempt to form a theory on the origin of Celtic Christian artwork as well as a general summary of the archaeology of bronze-age and iron-age Celtic cultures. This review was based on the 1993 facsimile rather than the original. Some aspects of this book are somewhat dated which is to be expected after more than a hundred years, but much more of the book is based on evidence which has not yet been discredited or superceded. This book is thus extremely important for the understanding various elements of archaeology relating to Celtic art. The book is characterized by a clear attention to detail and a careful approach. Where the evidence is unclear he says so. It thus remains a useful work over a hundred years after its publication date.

Very impressed

Item well packaged therefore arrived in very, very good condition, item in better condition than described, item arrived well within time expected. Would deal with seller again!

An outstanding, highly recommended history of Celtic art

J. Romilly Allen is a renowned scholar in the development of Celtic art in the United kingdom and Celtic Art In Pagan & Christian Times provides a scholarly, yet completely "reader friendly" review of both Celtic history and the development of unique aspects of Celtic art. Over forty photos and line drawings in black and white accompany this outstanding, highly recommended history of Celtic art.