Celtic No.1 1856

Owen Jones made this lithograph, Celtic No.1, in England during the 19th century. It forms part of his publication, "The Grammar of Ornament." Jones presents Celtic designs with his characteristic precision. The patterns and motifs, sourced from early medieval monuments, reflect a broader Victorian interest in Britain's cultural origins. It was a period characterized by the professionalization of archaeology and a growing sense of national identity. Jones was instrumental in codifying design principles through historical study. His work was intended to serve as a practical guide for contemporary artists and designers, and as a vehicle for raising public taste. Art historians use sources like design manuals, museum archives, and exhibition records to reconstruct the social life of images. This helps us to understand how tastes are shaped and what role art can play in constructing cultural identity.