This replica of the CLONMACNOIS SOUTH CROSS by McHarp is inspired by the actual carved stone cross in Offaly, Ireland. In a remote spot by the River Shannon the monastery Clonmacnois, was founded in 545 AD by St. Ciaran, on a fertile meadow surrounded by a bob. The name means “the meadow of the son of Nos”. It could be reached only by river along a ridge known as the Pilgrims’ Road. Clonmacnois lay at a crossroads of medieval routes, linking all parts of Ireland. Known for its scholarship and piety, as well as a sculpture workshop, it thrived from the 7th to the 12th century. The monastery once had four high crosses; only two are intact today. The South Cross is thought to date from the 8th century and so it would be the oldest at Clonmacnois. It is 9 feet high and made of the three pieces of sandstone with hatched molding. It marks a transition from the Ahenny crosses to the crosses with biblical scenes, and has links with Iona in the adoption of raised bosses. The vine in the bottom panel of the cross is inhabited with birds and animals, which is the Celtic version of the Tree of Life. The Tree of Life evoked life, longevity, spiritual growth, rebirth and a ongoing search for spiritual fulfillment.
Cast in the USA by McHarp, 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. There is also an explanation card included with history of the cross.
Dimensions 12.25″ H x 5.5″ W
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