Celtic Warrior Wedding Rings: The History of the Ardagh Chalice

History of the Ardagh Chalice

Legends tell us that the Ardagh chalice was discovered by accident in September 1868. Two men named Jimmy Quinn and Paddy Flanagan were digging potatoes in the ring fort Reesrasta near Ardagh when their spade hit something hard. Under the shrubbery, they came across this beautiful cup, which proves to be finest example of 8th Century metalwork.

It was not clearly known why they were digging potatoes in that location. But one theory suggests that this was to avoid the effects of the potato blight from the Great Irish famine. There was also a rumor going around that it was Paddy Flanagan who found the Ardagh chalice but Jimmy Quinn went on to take all the credit.

For this reason, Paddy Flanagan left Quinn's employment. He eventually died as a very poor person. Jimmy Quinn, meanwhile, fled to Australia, where he also died. He left the sole possession of the chalice to Mrs. Quinn.

Mrs. Quinn, who was probably oblivious to the extreme value of the chalice, sold it to the Bishop of Limerick named Dr. Butler for a bargain price of 50 Irish pounds. Dr. Butler was able to resell the cup for 500 Irish pounds to the Royal Irish Academy.

Aside from the chalice, some other treasures were included in the sale such as a smaller bronze chalice, wooden cross, and ornate brooches. These items came to be known as the "Ardagh Hoard."

This set of treasures was said to have been buried in haste to be hidden from approaching enemy soldiers. During the Penal Law in Ireland, secret masses were held in Rath using these pieces. Whoever stashed these treasures away never had the opportunity to recover them again. That is how Paddy Flanagan and Jimmy Quinn chanced upon it.

The creator of this wonderful masterpiece is unknown. His identity will remain a secret together with all the other mysteries that surround this marvelous piece of art. However, the virtuosity of his artwork will forever serve as an inspiration for artists and craftsmen all over the world.

Today, the Ardagh Chalice remains as the most celebrated historical artifacts in Ireland, dating back its origins to the 8th century. It is truly one of the finest expressions of Irish artistry, creativity, and metal craftsmanship. The chalice now resides at the National Museum of Ireland as the "Jewel in the Crown" of all the other collections there and is continually admired by people from all walks of life.

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Ardagh Chalice in Celtic Warrior Rings

The Ardagh Chalice has become such a strong inspiration and influence to people especially to artists that Celtic warrior rings have been crafted to exemplify the wondrous beauty and intricacy of this chalice. The magnificent chalice has become the basis for the design of the Celtic warrior ring.

This ring, otherwise known as the Celtic shield ring is now popularly used as Celtic wedding rings. The great thing about this ring is that it allows you to have an up-close relationship with the chalice.

You do not have to simply admire it from afar but you can imbibe it in your personal style to express your respect and appreciation for this fabulous artwork. Moreover, not only would you be able to enjoy the excellent artistic quality found in the chalice but you would also be connected to Irish culture and tradition.

The Ardagh chalice is indeed one of the historical artifacts of Ireland that every Irish person would certainly be proud of. Ranking with the Book of Kells as a fine piece of insular artwork, the Ardagh Chalice will continue to fascinate and inspire people even those who do not have any Irish background.