Inspired by the Book of Kells and its mesmerising patterns, this award-winning puzzle is steeped in the ancient legends of Ireland's Celtic heritage and royal past.

Dublin born artist Rachel Arbuckle graduated from Dublin's National College of Art and Design in 1990. Inspiration found in the intricate knotwork adorning the ancient manuscripts, stone and metalwork, coupled with Rache's love of a good story, have combined to produce some of the most popular images in contemporary Irish Celtic art.

The story of the Green Man...

The Green Man is a motif found in many cultures around the world. The representation of a face surrounded by or made of leaves; it is interpreted primarily as a symbol of rebirth, representing the cycle of growth each spring. Perhaps a fertility God, the beneficent spirit of vegetation or a tree spirit, the Green Man motif was still being built into European churches even after 1000 years of Christianity. Here the artist has depicted the Green Man as the centre of the life cycle of the Oak tree. Oak was a sacred tree for the Celts, thought to have special powers and to serve as the abode of the fairies. In reality the oak tree supports more insect, bird and animal life than any other. The Dagda, the powerful God of Celtic tradition, is likened to the oak, never failing to give hospitality to all who asked for it.

Description:

• 1000 piece puzzle
• 66.5cm x 50cm when completed
• Comes in illustrated box measuring 23cm x 23cm x 4cm
• Made in Ireland