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Print of the Satchel that contains the Book of Armagh
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  • Print of the Satchel that contains the Book of Armagh

The Stowe Missal Cumdach Print: An Irish Artistic Legacy

£ 47.57
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Discover the Stowe Missal Cumdach, an Irish relic that weaves together pearls, jewels, and prayers into a tapestry of cultural history.

More info on the Stowe Missal...

Imagine holding a piece of history in your hands, not just any history, but the kind that whispers tales of faith, artistry, and the Irish spirit. That's the Stowe Missal Cumdach for you, a relic that's as much a work of art as it is a sacred vessel. Crafted by the hands of a skilled ancestor, Dunchad, descendant of Taccan from the Cluan family, this cumdach, or book shrine, is a protective covering for the Stowe Missal, a liturgical manuscript. It's not just a cover; it's a statement of devotion and a testament to the craftsmanship of the time.

The lid of this cumdach is nothing short of a masterpiece. Adorned with an elaborate cross, it's a symphony of pearls and metal studs that catch the light and the eye. At the heart of this cross lies a prominent oval crystal, set against a pink background, commanding attention and reverence. This crystal isn't just a decorative piece; it's a symbol of purity and the divine, a common motif in religious artifacts.

But the Stowe Missal Cumdach isn't just about what's on the surface. The newer enamels that surround the central crystal tell a story of restoration and preservation, likely replacements for older ones that time had claimed. Each arm of the cross culminates in a sizable jewel, a nod to the wealth and status of the church during this period. These jewels aren't just ornamental; they're a reflection of the celestial, a piece of heaven on earth.

Look closer, and you'll see the spaces within the cross arms come alive with silver gilt plates, intricately engraved with depictions of Saints. These aren't just engravings; they're a silent congregation of the holy, etched into the very metal itself. The silver edge plates bear an inscription, a plea for prayers for the maker of this cumdach. It's a personal touch that connects us across centuries to Dunchad, a craftsman who left his mark on the world in silver and gold.

The Stowe Missal Cumdach isn't just an object of beauty; it's a cultural icon. It represents a time when the Irish church was a beacon of learning and artistry, a period that would come to be known as the Insular art period, characterized by intricate designs and a unique blend of native and foreign influences. This cumdach is a product of that era, a piece that embodies the fusion of Celtic and Christian traditions.

But why does this matter? Why should we care about a book cover from centuries ago? Because the Stowe Missal Cumdach is more than that. It's a link to our past, a tangible connection to the ancestors who valued beauty, craftsmanship, and faith. It's a reminder of the rich cultural heritage that Ireland has to offer, a heritage that's as vibrant today as it was back then.

So, let's take a moment to appreciate the Stowe Missal Cumdach, not just for its aesthetic appeal, but for its place in the tapestry of Irish history. Let's celebrate the unnamed artists who, like Dunchad, poured their souls into creating something that would stand the test of time. And let's remember that in every pearl, every metal stud, and every engraved saint, there's a story waiting to be told, a prayer waiting to be whispered, and a piece of Ireland waiting to be discovered.

In the end, the Stowe Missal Cumdach is more than just an artifact; it's a legacy. It's a testament to the enduring nature of Irish art, the resilience of faith, and the timeless beauty that can be created when the two come together. So, the next time you come across a piece of Irish heritage, take a closer look. You might just find yourself holding a piece of history, a piece of art, and a piece of the soul of Ireland itself.

  • FREE DELIVERY to most of Europe

  •  Canvas stretched by hand on wood fram

  • Crisp resolution & radiant colours

  • UV-resistant, solvent-free inks

  • Carefully sourced premium materials

  • Complete with a wall hanger kit

  • Free deliveries over £49 value to the UK mainland.

Canvas Photo Prints: Vibrant Colors and Unmatched Clarity
Our canvas prints offer exceptional all-around quality, combining state-of-the-art digital printing technology with expert traditional woodworking for a durable and sturdy structure. Utilizing special UV-resistant inks to preserve the original colors over time, your photo on canvas will radiate with rich, warm hues and exhibit the sharpest, most striking contrasts.

Canvas Prints Ready to Ship in around 24 Hours
You can expect your canvas photo print to be prepared for shipping in around 24 hours or so, depending on the time of day of your order. Our highly efficient production methods ensure that your new wall decor is crafted swiftly, without sacrificing quality. Additionally, your finished product will be delivered in a securely insured package, thoughtfully designed to safeguard your valuable canvas during transit.

Professional-Grade Canvas Certified for Printing
Every canvas produced in through us is meticulously primed for industrial printing, guaranteeing impeccable image quality. Each canvas is precisely tailored to work in harmony with our HP Latex Inks, delivering optimal outcomes. The remarkable aspect of this entire procedure? There are absolutely no solvents involved, making our canvas prints are entirely safe for both children and individuals with allergies.

Gallery-Ready Photo Canvas Stretched on a Frame
Once your canvas photos arrive, they are ready to adorn your walls immediately, complete with hanging kit. Every canvas print is meticulously hand-stretched over a high-quality wooden stretcher frame and firmly secured at the back. Our robust yet lightweight frames are the culmination of our extensive craftsmanship, guaranteeing convenience and long-term satisfaction for our customers.