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I have two main tree designs which can
be altered to indicate different trees by
changing the terminals and colour. (See also Tree
Series # 1) This one
is based on an image from the Cross of Cong, a
9th c reliquary. I have made it to indicate not
only a hawthorn bush, but also blackthorn bush -
another tree of significance It is
thought that the early Celts held trees in
special esteem. The druids were believed to
worship in oak groves, and each Celtic tribe may
have had a special tutelary tree. The letters of
the Ogham alphabet and perhaps the months of the
Celtic year were named after trees.
(ref: Robert Graves, "The
White Goddess")
Hawthorn
is also known as 'may' and is in general
associated with chastity. It is identified with
Mary in the Catholic tradition. Because of this
connection it has always been considered an
unlucky month to marry. It was considered most
unlucky to destroy a hawthorn tree. Its Gaelic
name is Uath.
The
Blackthorn is the tree of
strife, and as such is associated with struggle
against oppression. A harsh winter was called
blackthorn winter indicating associations with
strength against adversity. The fruit (sloes)
were associated with beauty, and many folksongs
and ballads describe the beautiful beloved as
having 'eyes as black as sloes'. Its Gaelic name
is Straif
All
brooches can also be ordered as necklaces
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Hawthorn: Colour: Green blend w/ gold and silver foils Size:
1 1/2" x 1 1/4"
Inspiration
artefact:
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