Description

A McHarp cast stone Irish Celtic cross based on Quinn Harp Cross, County Clare, Ireland.

Although very old, this cross is not one of the ancient high crosses of Ireland although it was obviously inspired by them. The Quinn Harp Cross is located among the ruins of the Quinn Friary in County Clare (originally founded as a Franciscan Friary in 1433). It stands eleven feet high, and on its face are carved scores of Irish shamrocks and an Irish harp.

These two symbols-- the harp and the shamrock-- have been important in Irish history for centuries. Saint Patrick picked a shamrock growing near his feet to explain the idea of the Trinity to his followers: three distinct leaves but all in one plant. The harp is the national symbol of Ireland, and is found on all government documents and all Irish coins.

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.

14 inches high by 6 inches wide. Lovely weight and feel (somewhere between ceramic and stone).

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