This is the first major exhibition to examine the full history of Celtic art and identity, and is organised in partnership between the British Museum and National Museums Scotland. The story unfolds over 2,500 years, from the first recorded mention of ‘Celts’ to an exploration of contemporary Celtic influences. Discover how this identity has been revived and reinvented over the centuries, across Britain, Europe and beyond.
Around 500 BC, the peoples first referred to as Celts lived across much of northern Europe. They made objects decorated with intricate patterns and fantastic animals, rich with hidden meanings, which were used for feasting, religious ceremonies, adornment and warfare. Over time, their distinctive abstract art style transformed and took on new influences, through Roman conquest, the spread of Christianity, shifting national politics, right…
