Celtic No.3 1856

Owen Jones created ‘Celtic No.3’ during a period of renewed interest in historical design and ornament in the 19th century. Jones was a leading figure in the design reform movement in Britain, advocating for the use of historical styles and patterns in contemporary design. This print showcases a variety of Celtic motifs, reflecting Jones's interest in non-Western and ancient sources of design. It’s hard not to see a romanticization of Celtic culture, viewed through the lens of 19th-century Orientalism, where cultural elements are extracted and reinterpreted, often losing their original context. Consider how Jones, as a designer in Victorian England, engaged with and perhaps reshaped the narrative of Celtic identity through his work. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors might evoke a sense of cultural pride, but also raise questions about cultural appropriation and representation. How does seeing these ancient motifs translated into a 19th-century design context make you feel about the preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage?