"Soiscél Molaise (Electroplated Replica)"

19th century

Height: 12cm
Width: 14cm
Depth: 9cm

The original book shrine was made in the 11th century to house the gospel manuscript associated with St Molaise of Devenish. The front of the shrine shows the symbols of the four evangelists: the man representing St Matthew, the lion for St Mark, the calf for St Luke and the eagle for St John. In the 12th century, the shrine is recorded as being in the guardianship of the erenagh family of Ui Mhithighein (O’Meehan). The original book shrine now belongs to the National Museum of Ireland. This rare 19th century electroplated copper copy was possibly made by the Dublin jeweller, Edmond Johnson.

Purchased with assistance from the Museum Friends

FCM_2008_001