One of Limerick’s most prized possessions has received the stamp of approval from An Post.
The Ardagh Chalice has been selected to appear on Ireland’s latest set of definitive stamps which are termed “everyday” stamps that remain on sale for a number of years. The artifact previously featured on the stamps twenty two years ago.
The stamps are the second phase of the series, ‘A History of Ireland in 100 Objects, a selection’. The definitive series is based on Fintan O’Toole’s book, A History of Ireland in 100 Objects, with each object opening a window into an important moment in Irish history between 5000BC and the early 21st Century. The project marks a partnership between The National Museum of Ireland, The Irish Times, The Royal Irish Academy and An Post.
The Ardagh Chalice was discovered in September 1868. Constructed from 354 individual pieces the chalice is made from silver and bronze alloy and contains inscription‘s of the names of the eleven apostles and St. Paul. The purpose of the Chalice was to distribute Eucharistic wine. The chalice currently resides in the National Museum of Ireland.
