Description

A McHarp cast stone Irish Celtic cross based on a cross among the ruins of Monasterboice monastery, near Mellifont Abbey in County Louth, Ireland.

This Celtic cross design features ivy leaves, which represent everlasting life, as well as shamrocks, one of Ireland's most-beloved national symbols. According to Irish tradition, 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.

In the center of the cross is a circular Celtic knotwork design. The unbroken, continuous lines of Celtic knotwork represent the interconnectedness of life, things without beginning and ends, and the ongoing spiritual journey. At the top of the cross are the interwoven letters "IHS" which are common to many crosses in Ireland. The first three letters of Jesus's name in Greek are represented by these letters, and they are popularly interpreted as "In His Service."

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 7 inches wide. Lovely weight and feel (somewhere between ceramic and stone).

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