A 19thC Irish Blacksmith Forged Wrought Iron Cross

Object Description

The blacksmith made nineteenth century Irish wrought iron cross, forged in two sections, having openwork heart motif ends and the initials M and E to the arms, the whole having been discovered in a barn in County Cavan, Ireland.

Object History

County Cavan, Ireland.

Object Literature

Cross symbols predate Christianity, and ancient objects bearing crosses have been found in most parts of the world and the cross is the most well-known symbol of the Christian faith. It represents the death and resurrection of Jesus and serves as a reminder of our own sins and our need for redemption. The heart motifs on this example along with the initials indicate it may have been forged for a marriage and used in a procession or perhaps more tragically a loss. We cannot find a comparable antique example.

In the period this piece was forged the local blacksmith made much of items that were needed in daily life, particularly within the farming. He was an important man and his status and pecking order in society was somewhere between the Parish Priest, the Schoolteacher and the Miller. With his anvil, bellows and a stout sledge, all accompanied by muscle power and driven by an inventive brain, it was indeed possible for him to make literally anything.

A unique and highly emotive object brimming with wonderfully romantic folky intrigue.

Object Condition

The cross is in good overall condition with only expected rusting and remaining exactly in the condition it was when it was forged.

Object Details