Beltane order original watercolour painting

Original watercolour painting representing Beltane.

The painting measures 25x36 24x32 cm or 9 1/2x12 1/2 inch and is not framed. It will be sent in a protective sleeve wih a sturdy carboard.

Painted on Fabriano watercolour paper.

The price includes shipping per UPS, tracking number will be provided.

Beltane is a Celtic celebration most commonly it is held on 1 May, or about halfway between the spring equinox and the summer solstice. Historically, iIt t was widely observed throughout Ireland and Scotland.

Beltane marked the beginning of summer and was when cattle were driven out order to the summer pastures. Rituals were performed to protect the cattle, crops and people, and to encourage growth. Special bonfires were kindled, and their flames, smoke and ashes were deemed to have protective powers. The people and their cattle would walk around the bonfire or between two bonfires, and sometimes leap over the flames or embers. All household fires would be doused and then re-lit from the Beltane bonfire. These gatherings would be accompanied by a feast. Doors, windows, byres and the cattle themselves would be decorated with yellow May flowers, perhaps because they evoked fire. Holy wells were also visited. Many of these customs were part of May Day or Midsummer festivals in other parts of Great Britain and Europe.