Description

A McHarp cast stone Irish Celtic cross based on Duleek Cross, County Meath, Ireland.

A tag accompanies the cross: "At six feet high, this 9th century cross is one of the smallest of the great Irish High Crosses, some of which are 20 to 22 feet high. All sides of the Duleek Cross are decorated, with figure sculptures on the west face. We have chosen to present the east face with its knotwork, spirals, and mazes; all symbolic elements of Celtic art. In the center of the cross are seven raised spirals. These are thought to represent the dance of heavenly bodies around the sun. In the 9th century, it was believed there were five planets, the sun and the moon. Hence the number seven."

Cast in the USA by McHarp-- the mother-daughter team of Ruth McKay and Linda Harp. Linda has a masters degree in anthroplogy, and Ruth has an extensive background in art and sculpture. Each cross is inspired by an actual carved stone cross in Ireland.

The piece is first carved in clay, and then a mold is taken from the carving. The molds are used to cast the crosses in a durable stone-like material, and the pieces are then stained and sealed several times to achieve the final finish. The cross comes with an attached wire hanger on the back, and is ready to be displayed indoors or outdoors in sheltered areas.

13.5 inches high by 7.5 inches wide. Lovely weight and feel (somewhere between ceramic and stone).

To see a larger view, please click on the image.