Recent Book Launch: The Cross of Cong A Masterpiece of Medieval Irish Art

The Cross of Cong can be considered to be one of Ireland’s most magnificent treasures, representing the conclusion of a long tradition of distinctively Irish church metalwork. 

IRISH ACADEMIC PRESS

The Cross of Cong A Masterpiece of Medieval Irish Art

By Dr Griffin Murray

The Cross of Cong can be considered to be one of Ireland’s most magnificent treasures, representing the conclusion of a long tradition of distinctively Irish church metalwork. Made to enshrine a relic of Christ’s Cross in the early twelfth century under the patronage of the High King Turlough O’Connor, it was one of the most important reliquaries in medieval Ireland. Now for the first time we are given a detailed study into this stunning masterpiece that has played such an interesting role in Irish history. Available in hardback priced €45 in bookshops nationwide and from www.iap.ie

About the book: The Cross of Cong: A Masterpiece of Medieval Irish Art provides us with a unique exploration of the cross and its history, examining the artistic, political, and religious factors that led to its creation. Griffin Murray amplifies the book’s focus through his examination of the political and social context at play in its production, alongside its primary role as an object of religious devotion.

The book also traces the Cross from its medieval origins onto its handling in more recent years, describing its important position in the history of Irish national collections and its impact on the Gaelic Revival. With surprising and noteworthy revelations on the secrets of recent x-ray examinations and new research on the origins of the Cross, in addition to the stunningly detailed photography, The Cross of Cong is sure to appeal to specialists and non-specialists alike.

About the author: Dr Griffin Murray is an Irish Research Council Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Archaeology, University College Cork. He is honorary editor of the Journal of the Cork Historical and Archaeological Society, a Member of the Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland.

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