Celtic Influence - Animals as Celtic Symbols
My love of animals and all things Celtic influenced this collection of hand painted gifts. Here you will find decorative boxes, wooden plaques and trays inspired by animals important to Celtic survival in providing life for the tribes through meat, skin and bones; important as a connection to the realm of spirits and gods through their use in the hunt.
Certain animals in Celtic mythology were believed to possess special powers. A nomadic people, the Celts once flourished in most of Europe. Nowadays, their traditions are preserved mainly in Ireland, the Isle of Man, Scotland and Wales. Click on the images or text links below to visit each Celtic animal page for one of a kind hand painted gifts with a Celtic Influence.
The Horse
To a mobile people in an ancient world the horse was essential to Celtic society, its survival, a symbol of status and culture. You too can have the status of a hand painted Horse - jewelry box, plaque or tray to decorate your home.
The Bull
Animals in Celtic mythology were a symbol of fertility and vitality. The bull a symbol of power and wealth. However, you don't have to be rich to afford the Bull - Celtic symbol hand painted gifts here!
The Stag
The stag was a symbol of spiritual growth. Often a messenger and guide from other worlds. The stag was associated with Cerunnos, horned antler god of all wild animals. Let the Stag be your guide to a hand painted gifts of box and plaque to decorate your home!
The Dog
Dogs were associated with healing, their saliva thought to have curative powers. You can have your own Celtic symbol for loyalty, Celtic Dog on a box or plaque. Or gift your symbol of love and devotion to someone special.
The Fish
Natural wood finish Fish design boxes and trays bring an outdoors feel to your home. Fish were thought to have special powers. Salmon in particular were associated with knowledge and wisdom.
The Boar
To the Celtic warrior the wild boar symbolized victory and bravery. If you are looking for a gift, for the warrior in your life, then check out this masculine jewelry box decorated with the
wild boar - Celtic symbol for strength. A hand painted gift with attitude!
The Raven
To the Celts birds represent prophetic knowledge, bloodshed and skill. In an omen they can be either the message or the messenger. You can foretell small items will not be lost - when stored in these Celtic Raven wooden boxes.
The Owl
The owl a Celtic symbol of wisdom and patience and guide to and through the underworld. Visit the Celtic Owl - decorative box page to find a useful little box to store your trinkets in. Or read a little of the Celtic mythology surrounding the owl.
The Swan
The swan was a Celtic symbol of the soul, that aspect of all beings that is eternal. They were connected with music and song. A dream symbol that signified self-transformation and intuition.
The Swan jewelry box is the perfect nest for your little treasures.
The Wolf
The wolf, an intelligent animal, symbolized not just loyalty and devotion but learning and intuition also in its ability to outwit the hunter. Visit Celtic Wolf to see a beautiful hand painted gifts.
Celtic Tree of Life
Trees such as the oak and ash were considered sacred to the Celts. My design of the Celtic tree of life hand painted box is a celebration of animals and the natural world.The box comes with an explanation of the Celtic symbolism behind the flora and fauna on the box. A truly one of a kind hand painted gift.
