For the first time, the 2007 Scoil na gCláirseach – Summer School of Early Irish Harp included a harpmaker’s exhibition. As a result of the HHSI’s invitations to harpmakers in Ireland, Scotland and abroad, we are delighted that there are now in Ireland two beautiful, one-off, handmade replica early Irish harps available for sale!
One is a replica of the medieval Trinity College harp, by Davy Patton (Co. Roscommon, Ireland), which presents the instrument in its original medieval state – without the jewelled fittings that were later additions, but with a striking red and blue painted colour scheme copied from traces of pigment on the original instrument in Trinity College, Dublin.
The other is a replica of the ‘Downhill’ harp of 1702, by David Kortier (Duluth, MN, USA), which as well as the bold yet subtle carving of the original also includes the poem lettered on the soundbox giving the date and maker of the original.
Both of these instruments were completed in the summer of 2007 and have been strung and brought to pitch in Ireland under the auspices of the Historical Harp Society of Ireland. Both are available to purchase through the Society, and can be inspected by appointment.
For more information and photographs please vivit the HHSI shop web pages: www.irishharp.org/shop/ or email shop@irishharp.org
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