A masterpiece of medieval art, Saint Manchan’s Shrine is Ireland's largest surviving 12th century reliquary. A unique example of Irish monastic metalsmithing combining Irish, late Viking/Urnes and Romanesque Christian art styles. This cross fertilization of styles and cultures makes it a unique study from both archaeological and metalsmithing perspectives.
A rich and dazzling Celtic bewilderment, a perpetual challenge to the eyes and a perpetual delight. T.D. Kendrick (Archaeologia 86, 1936)
Saint Manchan's Shrine: Art and Devotion in Twelfth Century Ireland
The publication will feature full- and double-page image spreads, antiquarian drawings and descriptive metalsmithing close-ups. The text will be presented in a series of essay’s that will cover various topics including Saint Manchan and Lemanaghan, the art and craftsmanship of Saint Manchan’s Shrine, Lemanaghan and Clonmacnoise in the early 12th century, cross cultural influences, Hiberno/Urnes design and the Shrines relationship with the makers of The Cross of Cong.
Archaeologist Dr. Griffin Murray and metalsmith/photographer Kevin O’Dwyer are combining their expertise to create an important full colour coffee table book that features O’Dwyer’s captivating and atmospheric photographs, Murray’s in-depth story telling of the history and folklore of Saint Manchan's Shrine and Oonagh Young's (Design HQ) inspired book design.
Our team of professionals have a track record for producing high quality publications that are well researched and beautifully illustrated.
Griffin Murray - Author
Kevin O'Dwyer - Photographer/Artistic Director
Oonagh Young - Book Designer
Funds received will be used for design and printing costs. At this time we have raised 10,000 euro towards this limited edition publication. The project has been generously supported by Offaly County Council Heritage office and Creative Ireland. Our projected total budget is 19,000 euro. We are looking for your support to make this publication possible by pre-ordering the book and availing of our various funding rewards featured on this site.
Why Fund:it
Fund:it provides an opportunity to reach a broader Arts and Heritage community of support - local and international - to assist in our goal to highlight this important Irish artefact.
Personal note from Kevin O'Dwyer
During 2005/2006 I had the pleasure to direct and project manage the publication: Stories from a Sacred Landscape: Croghan Hill to Clonmacnoise. The book explored the monastic sites, history, folklore and artefacts of County Offaly. The publication highlighted a rare example of 12th century monastic metalsmithing - Saint Manchan's Shrine. The need for a more in-depth study and documentation of this masterpiece of medieval art is the goal of this publication. Please support this important full colour limited edition publication that celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship of Saint Manchan's Shrine.
Thank you for visiting our page and I hope you will be inspired to support this exciting project.
Image # 1 & 2 The 11th Figure (artist impression) Height 8cm (3 inches) Bronze
Image #3 The 11th Figure (artist impression) Cast Bronze (15 cm/6 inches)
Image #4 The 11th Figure on plinth - Original artwork. Kevin O'Dwyer
Image #5 Fine Silver Rose Bowl