GIVE OR TAKE a few days, it’s a thousand years since Brian Boru last wore a crown. The High King was slaughtered by Norsemen at the Battle of Clontarf on 23 April 1014.
A unique new piece dedicated to the slain leader is being unveiled tomorrow however — it’s been created by not-for-profit group Jewels for Cures as part of an new fundraising initiative.
Da Capo jewellers were commissioned to make it, and pieces of jewellery donated by the Irish diaspora were used to create the medallions set into the crown.
The original idea had been to auction the crown worldwide, with the buyer receiving a mini replica and the proceeds going to cancer research.
Instead, organisers are asking for those interested in contributing to donate pieces of gold, which will be used to add a sixth medallion to the piece later this year.
Their names will be added to a ‘Brian Boru Millennium Descendency Scroll’ which will travel with the crown around the globe. €250 will also buy you a listing on the scroll, even without a gold donation.
It’s planned the piece will be brought on tours of Irish American organisations, and shown off at fundraising events. All cash is going to registered charity the Cancer Clinical Research Trust.
Conor O’Brien (Lord Inchiquin), who is a descendant of Boru, will unveil the crown tomorrow at Dublin Castle, alongside Arts & Heritage Minister Jimmy Deenihan.
It will be on display at the Castle’s Throne Room for tomorrow and during Easter Week.
All images: Jewels for Cures
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