Review by Choice Review
The study of the aesthetically endowed objects made and cherished by the Celtic peoples of Europe in late prehistoric times until the Viking era has emerged during the latter half of this century as a legitimate academic field, with prominent representatives appearing in Germany, France, and Britain. The authors of Celtic Art are the leaders of the "British School," although one occupies a post in Australia and works from a perspective with strong ties to the anthropological analysis of art. Most works on Celtic art stop at Roman times, but this one continues with the artwork of "Celtic Libera" and thus makes connections with the Irish, Welsh, and Scottish art during the migration and early Christian periods. The authors also include the Golden Warrior fubula from pre-Roman Iberia, a piece so remarkable that even the experts are awed by it. The quality and format of the publication is appropriate for an artistic subject, with color as well as black-and-white plates. The clear, jargon-shy prose can communicate interestingly to a wide range of readers. -R. M. Rowlett, University of Missouri--Columbia
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
The marvelous interlacing artwork of the Celts finds admirers among those with an ethnic connection to that ancient people, as well as those who love graceful, stylized patterns. The Megaws' volume offers an excellent collection of Celtic work for such enthusiasts. There are enough famous, oft-reproduced works (the Gundustrup caldron, the Desborough spiral mirror) to make this book a good selection for libraries without another title on the subject, but there are so many unusual and gorgeous artifacts (Yugoslavian torcs, British dragon brooches, Irish stone figures) that it would also be a good addition to any general art collection, however extensive. Index. --Pat Monaghan
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
