At the end of the eighth century, the Vikings began to plunder the Celtic monasteries, putting an end to the golden age of Celtic art in the Early Christian period. In spite of the invaders' love of looting, fire and the sword, their impact was not simply destructive. In a second golden age that flourished into the high Middle Ages, Irish Dragon and Griffin patterns were wrought in Viking styles, producing a marvelous and distinctive art akin to Art Nouveau and Gothic fantasy.

The author shows how these patterns are formed and gives detailed practical advice on how they can be recreated and adapted by today's artists and designers, or by anyone wishing to enjoy the sheer decorative exuberance of these once fearsome beasts.