Green, one of the most respected young scholars of Celtic tradition, is a superlative researcher and a clear, often eloquent writer. In this gorgeously illustrated volume, she approaches Celtic art in terms of what it expresses about Celtic culture's spiritual beliefs and social organization. After an excellent, concise introduction defining and locating the Celtic societies of 700 B.C. to A.D. 600, Green explores class and gender through an examination of jewelry, especially the goldwork usually found in graves, and reveals a Celtic world in which rich princesses enjoyed wine and song with male counterparts. Green then looks at the role of war among the Celts as it is suggested by ornate shields and carefully worked weapons. Finally, she comes to what many will consider the heart of the book: the expression of Celtic spirituality in art, especially through the attention to nature shown in the intricate, interlaced vegetation and animal shapes common to the Book of Kells and far earlier metalwork. A fine addition wherever interest in matters Celtic runs high. - Patricia Monaghan; 176p-
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