04/21/2023
Estate sale find will be the topic of lecture at Buffalo Irish Center.
A rare book that is a fine example of Irish artistry and scholarship has been acquired by Walker Metalsmiths in Andover, NY. The Cromlech on Howth is a beautifully illustrated and illuminated poem published in 1861.
Stephen Walker will be featuring this book in a lecture, Weaving the Endless Knot; the Folklore of Celtic Art, at the Buffalo Irish Center May 3 at 7 PM. This presentation is a preview of Walker’s contribution to an international gathering of Celtic artists and scholars this June in Downpatrick, Northern Ireland. The Cromlech on Howth book is a time capsule that informs of the attitudes and imagination that inspired the revival of medieval Celtic art in the middle of the 19th century.
Stephen Walker, founder of the Andover, NY Celtic jewelry business, used images from The Cromlech on Howth in several prior presentations on Celtic art. This famous book is difficult to find in well preserved, intact condition. Few were printed and some of those have been dismembered so that their most beautiful color plates can be sold individually. Walker says, “I have been looking for a complete copy of this book for many years. The one I finally was able to purchase had been in the library of a Highland Scottish gentleman who recently passed away.”
Three generations of Irish antiquarians and artists collaborated to create this book. The book combines the talent of poet Sir Samuel Ferguson, 1810-1886, with that of artist Miss Margaret Stokes, 1832-1900, and Dr. George Petrie, 1790-1866, who provided antiquarian commentary.
Artwork by Henry O’Neill, 1798-1880, will also be displayed and discussed along with examples of 19th century Celtic jewelry. The survival and evolution of Celtic art, its importance in national and ethnic identity and the mysterious symbolism of this complex tradition will be presented.
Walker’s lecture will be part of the Second International Day of Celtic Art Conference hosted by the Saint Patrick Centre in Downpatrick. Artists and scholars involved in the study and creation of Celtic art will meet from June 8-11 to share information and encouragement of this ancient art form.
The program at the Buffalo Irish Center is free to the public with no reservations nessisary. The presentation should last about 40 minutes, followed by some time for questions and socializing. Refreshments will be available. Buffalo Irish Center is at 245 Abbott Road.
