Lindisfarne Key Pattern Pendant
This key pattern dates back to the 7th century CE, Northumbria. It is from the Book of Lindisfarne, which is incredibly important in the history of art of the Celtic Church. Here again I have been drawn to the great enamel work of the Gaelic jewellers and the 7th century Anglo-Saxon luxury metalworkers. Rich in colourful birds, plants, and cats, the Book of Lindisfarne went on to inspire metalwork and set the benchmark for design of manuscripts for centuries to come.
For me, the rose gold in the centre of the sterling silver setting represents the Isle of Lindisfarne, and the blue enamel is the North Sea. The setting itself is inspired by the decorated rivet heads that enrich the Celtic Church metalwork, such as the Derrynaflan Paten and Stand (8th century) and secular arts of 6th-9th century Ireland, Pictish Scotland and Northumbria.
