5 minute read
1. Overview
2. The Book of Kells ( & how you can view it online )
3. Peacock Symbolism
4. Gallaghers' 24k Gold Irish Peacock Pendant
Overview
The Book of Kells, or ' Book of Columba ' is often regarded as the best preserved Celtic - Christian manuscript that exists today. Hundreds of thousands of tourists flock from all over the world to Dublin to marvel at its full-page illustrations, but few appreciate the full extent of its influence - particularly on pre-euro Irish currency.
Made famous by its distinctly Celtic illustrations and stunning level of detail, this book depicts the Four Gospels through the portrayal of biblical scenes, poetry and full-page masterpieces.
Did you know that The Book of Kells was a source of inspiration for the original designer of our 24k Gold Peacock Pendant ? Two such pages that feature the peacock inspired the 1971 design of the Irish Penny; folio32v and folio309r.
The Book of Kells
On display adjacent to Trinity College Dublin's historic Long Room, The Book of Kells is an ancient Christian manuscript that was written between the 6th and 8th centuries across Columban monasteries in Ireland, Scotland and England. Its name derives from the Abbey of Kells, in County Meath where it found refuge for centuries. Monks worked away for weeks on each page, producing a total of 680 pages.
A masterwork of Insular calligraphy, Trinity College Dublin rotates its pages once every 12 weeks. People travel from all over the world to marvel at this cultural jewel, but only get to see two pages at a time.
You can get the full Book of Kells experience by booking on the Visit Trinity site.
If you can't make it all the way to the heart of Dublin, you can view all of its fantastic pages online. Scroll to the bottom of this page.
Peacock Symbolism
Animal symbolism and imagery is prevalent throughout the text, weaving its way through the velum pages. But none is as important as the Peacock, as its inclusion in the hand-written drawings denote the purity of Christ. Beyond its associations with Christianity, the Peacock's flamboyant feathers and poise charm any spectator.
Gallaghers' 24k Gold Irish Peacock Pendant
The illustration of the curled-up peacock on the face of the old one pence 'Penny' was the work of renowned Irish artist and sculptor, Gabriel Hayes, which was first minted in 1971. She was inspired by the recurring theme of peacocks in the Book of Kells, and so are we.
Looking for the perfect Irish jewellery gift?
We discovered a small bag of old Irish pennies that our grandfather collected over a span of decades. We had two choices; turn them in to the central bank, where they would be melted down - or transform them into this stunning 24k Gold Irish Peacock Pendant. Now's your chance to "Get It. Or Gift It".
Gallaghers Gifts. Tales to Treasures.
