Interlace

A pattern of ornamentation that consists of twisted and plaited ribbons making geometric patterns, or of intertwined strands extending from animal and plant motifs. In the 7th and 8th centuries, interlace ornament was refined and used to great effect by Celtic and Anglo-Saxon metalworkers, sculptors, and manuscript illuminators. This artistic tradition was also prominent during the Viking period.

A form of pattern that intertwines parallel strands and ribbons, passing them over and under one another alternately. In the 7th and 8th centuries interlace ornament was refined and used to great effect by Celtic and Anglo-Saxon metalworkers, sculptors, and manuscript illuminators in intricate combinations of animal and foliate motifs. The artistic tradition was also very prominent throughout the Viking period.