A triskelion, or triskeles, is an ancient motif consisting either of a triple spiral exhibiting rotational symmetry or of other patterns in triplicate that emanate from a common center. The spiral design can be based on interlocking Archimedean spirals, or represent three bent human limbs. It occurs in artefacts of the European Neolithic and Bronze Ages with continuation into the Iron Age, especially in the context of the La Tène culture[1] and of related Celtic traditions.
The form on the left occurs on the entrance stone to Brugh na Boinne, Newgrange in the Boyne Valley, Ireland.
This form of the triskelion is from the Inner chamber of Brugh na boinne, Newgrange.
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The symbol was illuminated just once a year at dawn at the Winter solstice. The chamber was so small that only a handful of people may ever have observed it. The difference between the two may indicate a transition between two states of being or two states of knowledge.
This form of the triskelion is sometimes known as the 'Triple God Spiral' and is regarded by some as a symbol of a triple divinity such as the Morrigna, Three Gods of Art, Three Gods of Surety, Three Incarnations of Brighid or other triplisms.
Trees were of great significance to the ancient celts. Each province of Ireland had its own Great Tree, symbolising the unity, strength, fertility and prosperity of the people. Some view this smbol as the 'Tree of Life" symbolising the interconnectedness of all life. Some believe it represents the connection between earth, heaven and the underworld.
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an Claimh Soluis (mod Ir.G. claíomh solais, mod. Sc.G. an claidheamh Solais) 'Sword of Light' was also known as "Nuada's cainneal". The sword blade was an unextinguishable flame. it symbolised justice and cosmic order. Noone who wielded it could ever be defeated.
copyright Daniel Bradshaw, 2025, London
The Spear of Victory also known as 'Spear of Assal', 'Lance of Celtchair', 'The Slaughterous One' and 'A Yew Tree, the finest of the Wood' was a spear owned by Lugh. it was impossible to overcome any man who held it. The spear symbolised absolute victory and may represent the force of lightning.
The cauldron was the main cooking vessel of the Iron Age Celts. However, as well as its practical use it also had a supernatural connotation. An Daghda possessed an Coire ansaic, 'The Undry Cauldron' or 'Cauldron of Plenty' "from whom noone depated unsated". It symbolised abundance, fertility and the generosity of the gods.
an Lia Fail The Stone of Destiny, was said to cry out when touched by the rightful High-king. The stone was a symbol of kingship, authority and sovereignty but also battle and death.
According to myth the Lia Fail was buried at Teamhair, Tara. However, another myth says it was taken to Scotland and installed at the Abbey of Scone. The Stone of Scone has been used in every coronation of a British monarch since 1603, including the current king Charles III.
copyright Daniel Bradshaw, 2025, London
The four symbols above, an Caidheamh solais, Sword of Light; Sleagh Lugh, Spear of Victory; an Coire ansaic, Cauldron of Plenty and an Lia Fail, Stone of Destiny constitute the Four Treasures of the Tuatha De Danann. The treasures can be used as a symbol of the gods, their purpose and functions.
copyright Daniel Bradshaw, 2025, London
A' Chorrbolg, The Crane-bag was created by Manannan, god of the sea from the skin of aoife, a maiden of Manannan's household that had been cursed to live as a crane bird for two hundred years. Into it he placed his greatest treasures - his own shirt and knife; Gobhniu's girdle; a smith's hook from the fierce man; the King of Scotland's shears; the King of Lochlann's helmet, the bones of Asal's swine and the girdle of the great whale's back. When the tide was full, the bag is open and the treasures are seen in the middle of the ocean. When the tide is at the ebb, the bag is closed and the treasures cannot be seen.
Cros Bhrighid or Brighid's Cross is a four-armed cross woven from reeds. The Cross is both a symbol of the goddess Brighid and her festival Imbolc. Although adopted as a Christian symbol, it is likely that is far older and may be a version of a 'sun-wheel'. The cross symbolises the blessing and protection of the goddess.