‘Sacramental’,  Wild Stone/Boulder, 22 Carat Gold Leaf, Metal Plate, Piano Bolts

90cm x 45cm x 25cm (excl. plinth)

€5,000

Inspired by/represents the three figures carved in stone at Perry’s Well – an old covered well near where I grew up.  I like to think of them as the Magi.  Though the carving likely originated from the now-demolished Kilbuí Church near Day’s Hill, it was thankfully preserved.

The three gold hollows represent sacramental vessels – precious bowls symbolising the sacredness of the well.  Wells, in all cultures, hold deep significance.  The number three is sacred across many religions and belief systems.

When growing up and playing in the area it was a bit of a journey to get to Perry’s Well, there was a sense of adventure – the humps and hollows on the back of the piece are to represent this.

The drill marks are left on the stone, they are like Ogham writing – an ancient form of communication.  It also speaks of cycles; once quarried, shaped and used in construction, stones eventually return to the earth, as seen with Kilbuí Church.  Fossils embedded within the stone recall a time when faith shaped understanding.  Before Darwin and Mary Anning, fossils were often seen as divine imprints rather than remnants of ancient life.  This piece carries an energy – tactile and inviting to touch.