A vestige of history, Brian Boru’s Harp is an object of Irish cultural heritage. On display in the Old Library of Trinity College, Dublin, this is one of the oldest surviving Gaelic harps in the world! Beautifully crafted, it’s an iconic symbol of Ireland. A must-see when in Dublin!
Brian Boru – J.-H. Janßen – cc
Brian Boru’s harp probably dates from the 14th or 15th century, and thus post-dates the time of Brian Boru (c. 941-1014), the famous High King of Ireland, who liberated the island from the Viking yoke in the 11th century.
A true jewel of craftsmanship and lutherie, the harp was preserved for centuries in Ireland before being donated to Trinity College Dublin, where it remains on display for all to see.
It served as the model for the Irish Free State logo in 1922, and stylized images of the harp appear on coins, passports and other official symbols of Ireland.
The Brian Boru’s Harp, or “O’Neill Harp”, is a relatively small instrument compared to modern harps, and is very representative of the ancient Celtic or Gaelic harp style.
Its frame is carved from oak for the pillar and willow for the soundbox, materials commonly used in the manufacture of musical instruments at the time.
The shape is distinctive, with a curved front pillar, also called the console, that is distinctly curved outwards, unlike modern harps where the pillar is often straight.
The resonance box is hollowed out from a single block of wood, and the arm is relatively short.
The harp has between 29 and 30 strings, although the exact number may vary over time due to restorations.
The strings were traditionally made of metal, probably brass, stretched between the console and a wooden comb at the top of the soundbox.
The wood is carved and decorated with intricate motifs. These ornaments include carvings of animal heads on the console and notches and motifs on the soundbox.
The harp has unfortunately suffered damage over the centuries, and many of its parts, including the strings and tuning mechanism, have been replaced or restored.
Its current appearance gives an idea of its original appearance, although it is likely that the harp has undergone several modifications and repairs over its long history.
At present, it is no longer in playable condition, and many of its parts, such as strings and tuning mechanisms, have been replaced during its preservation.
Images and stylized representations of the harp tend to highlight its emblematic silhouette and decorative elements.
Although Brian Boru’s Harp is an ancient object and its appearance may have evolved over the centuries and through restoration, it retains an aura of mystery and beauty that continues to inspire respect and admiration. Its presence at Trinity College Dublin makes it a valuable object of study and a central piece of Irish cultural heritage.
Legends aside, Brian Boru’s Harp has an important place in Irish society, as it bears witness to Ireland’s long tradition of harp music.
Harpists were revered members of Gaelic society, and their music was essential to ceremonies and important events. The harp itself is an exquisite example of Irish medieval craftsmanship.
But that’s not all! Brian Boru’s harp, by virtue of its beauty and perfect fit with the Irish identity, was eventually adopted as the national emblem of the Republic of Ireland.
Brian Boru’s Harp represents not only the music and poetry that were highly esteemed in Gaelic society, but also Ireland’s sovereignty and national identity.
With the rise of Irish nationalism and the quest for independence, the harp was adopted as an emblem of national pride. When the Irish Free State was established in 1922, it chose the harp as its official state symbol.
The instrument is depicted on the Irish coat of arms in a specific pattern: it is generally turned to the left, with strings equal in number to the number of counties in Ireland.
The harp can be seen on Irish passports, Irish euro coins, and is also used by various government institutions and businesses, reinforcing its presence as a national symbol.
In short, the harp has become the national emblem of the Republic of Ireland through a convergence of musical tradition, history, political symbolism and nationalism, embodying Ireland’s independent spirit and rich cultural history. A symbol you need to know to better understand the Irish island!
