The Dalway Harp
Made in A.D 1621, by Donal O'Dermody of Kilkenny, for Sir John Fitz Edmund Fitzgerald of Cloyne, County Cork, Ireland.
Copyright managed by the Library CouncilThe Dalway Harp
Copyright managed by the Library Council
Copyright managed by the Library Council
The Dalway Harp
Made in A.D 1621, by Donal O'Dermody of Kilkenny, for Sir John Fitz Edmund Fitzgerald of Cloyne, County Cork, Ireland.
Copyright managed by the Library Council
The word 'harp' comes from the old Anglo-Saxon language. It means 'to pluck'. This is a good name as the harpist plucks the strings to play!
During medieval times, Ireland was famous for harp music and playing. Harpists travelled around Ireland and were very popular. The harp has been the symbol of Ireland since medieval times.
Today, the Irish harp symbol is based on the Trinity College Harp. This harp is one of Ireland's national treasures. It is also known as the Brian Boru harp or the O'Neill Harp. Experts believe it is from the 15th Century.