Cross and Square Knots

Cros / Cearnaigh
Celtic crosses are ancient, standing monuments that pre-date Christianity, and are primarily found in Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.  The Celtic cross has a circle around it, an essential symbol in Celtic belief, which distinguishes it from other types of crosses.  Early Celtic crosses have arms of equal length, posible signifying the points on a compass.  As Christian influence spread, the shape became elongated, and the carvings showed a greater complexity of knotwork.  These croses illustrate a perfect interweaving of Christian and Pagan influences, co-existing with, and influencing the other.  because of this, the cross knot, more than any other knot, has a deeper spiritual resonance for many people.  The four points on the cross knot can also signify the turning of the four seasons, and their importance for the Celtic Calendar.  Each season bringing with it a time for reflection, renewal, and celebration.
Vision / Aisling
Promise / Gealltanas
The square knot likewise departs from the traditional circular motif used in Celtic art, and can denote the four elements of earth, sea, fire, and water, as well as the four seasons.  The square knot is more frequently found on the bases of crosses in Scotland, with circular forms filling out the square.  It has been suggested that this type of knot symbolizes love, loyalty, and fidelity.
These Innisfree Glass plates have been named to honor the highly individual and personal meaning we can derive from the cross knot.  As we travel on our spiritual journey, we gather the mature wisdom that helps us to define our spirituality.  Sometimes this wisdom comes in the form of dreams or visions that inspire us to greater awareness.
Belief / Creideamh
Spirit / Spiorad
Wisdom / Crionnacht