Description

Cast by hand in the Wild Goose Studio, Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland. This standing St. Patrick statue has an outer shell of pure bronze with an inner core of cast resin material for stability. Each Wild Goose piece is made entirely by hand, with no two being exactly alike.

Since ancient times, bronze has been a highly prized metal for the making of tools, jewelry and statues. It is an alloy of copper, which was first mined in Ireland over 4000 years ago. Left to weather, it will acquire a green patina; polished it will shine like gold.

Much myth and legend surrounds the life of St. Patrick, Ireland's patron saint. Born in Roman Britain, at age 16 he was captured by pirates and sold into slavery in Ireland where he was put to work tending a chieftain's cattle. After six years, he escaped to France and entered a monastery to pursue a religious life. A bishop at 43, he returned to Ireland, converting the pagan country to Christian beliefs, using the shamrock, according to legend, to explain the concept of the Trinity to his followers.

This carving is based on a cross at Kilfenora in County Clare. It is a standing three-sided dimensional piece which would make a lovely addition to a shelf, desk or table.

Approximately 3 inches wide, 6.5 inches tall, and 1.25 inches thick at the point of greatest depth. Historical information is printed on the back of the piece.

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