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This bold kilt pin features the head of the bear — a creature revered across the Celtic and Norse worlds as a symbol of raw strength, courage, and steadfast protection. The stylized body, woven from Celtic and Viking-inspired knotwork, captures the bear’s dual nature: fierce in defense, calm in peace.
This 4" tall, rugged pewter kilt pin design was drawn exclusively for USA Kilts by Doug Cavanagh at Celtic Hammer Club. The pin was hand cast in pewter and polished to a high shine in the UK. It has 2 straight pins and plunger clasps for a secure connection to your kilt.
The bear is a timeless totem of strength and personal power. Not merely physical, but also mental.
In Celtic Lore:
In ancient Celtic myth, the bear was “the king of the forest” associated with warriors, kingship, the turning of the seasons and the concept of rebirth.
Continental Celts even revered a bear Goddess, Artio, who embodied the nurturing and protective aspects of the bear; similar to how a ferocious mother bear protects her young. The bear’s habit of hibernation and slow movements except when angered reminded the ancients of the qualities of patience and endurance, especially important for kings and war band leaders.
The Welsh word for bear is arth. Some scholars believe the name Arthur derives from the Celtic word for bear, artos - linking the legendary warrior king's prowess directly to the animal. The "once and future king" legend, which says Arthur is sleeping in Albion until his return, mirrors the bear's hibernation and re-emergence.
In Norse / Viking Lore:
Many of the qualities the Celts revered in Bears were also honored by the Norse. The irresistible strength of the bear was even echoed physically on the battlefield.
A select few Norse warriors were known as berserkr which translates "bear-shirt", referring to a warrior who wore a bearskin covering into battle. Berserkers, according to the lore, would enter a frenzied state in battle and seemed capable of almost superhuman feats of ferocious fighting ability. They seemed to channel the bear's very essence.
In all, the Bear is a perfect emblem for anyone who stands strong for their people and is ready to endure any storm. Calm at heart, but capable of great feats when the time comes.
