Book of Kells

One of the most famous medieval manuscripts in the world, the 8th century book has survived viking raids, theft, and rebellion. The stunning medieval manuscript is one of the most famous in the world.

An Illuminated Manuscript

On display at Trinity College in Dublin, nearly 1 million people each year come to gaze at the pages of this ancient text. Those who do are rewarded by illuminating illustrations — intricate Celtic spirals, knots and crosses join animals, plants and humans to vividly convey the four Gospels.

Ancient Artistry

The Book of Kells offers an enigmatic glimpse of our ancient past. Its surviving 340 vellum pages are thought to be the work of at least three different Columban monks.

Most attribute the book to a monastery founded by the Irish Saint Colum Cille on the Scottish Isle of Iona. However following a Viking raid in 806, the monks took refuge at another Columban monastery in Kells in Ireland. Thus it became known as “the Book of Kells”.

Continuing Tradition

On several pages the illustration is of such extraordinary fineness that it requires a magnifying glass to see it properly. The artists have had their skills likened to those of a goldsmith. So it is no wonder that this ancient work translates so beautifully to the gold, platinum, palladium, and silver of our handcrafted Book of Kells jewellery. And the popularity of these pieces and the enduring allure of the Book of Kells itself is a reminder that people from all countries draw inspiration from Ireland’s ancient past.