Bronze Celtic Cross of Hope Plaque

Description

Bronze Celtic Cross of Hope Plaque

This beautiful Irish Cross of Hope Plaque represents the Irish High Cross. These sandstone or granite high cross monuments are found throughout Ireland indicating holy places or monastic sites and can reach up to four metres in height. Dating from the 9th century A.D. the classic ring at the top of the cross is said to be a symbol of eternity. The Irish High Cross is one of the well-known symbols of Ireland along with the Shamrock, the Claddagh Ring and the Harp. These symbols of Ireland represent our rich Celtic history and culture. The ancient Celtic community had a tradition of holding celebrations around their local High Crosses in addition to the pure religious ceremonies. This Irish Plaque was designed in Galway Ireland and will make a wonderful gift for a loved one – evoking the ancient traditions of the Celtic people.

Hook on back for wall hanging.

Height 21cm

Width 13cm

The Celtic Cross

The Celtic Cross dates back over 1,500 years to when Christianity was introduced into the Celtic lands of north Western Europe. It represents a mixture of two separate cultures, with the new Christian religion and the older Celtic traditions forming a unique society especially in Ireland, Scotland , Wales and Brittany. In the earlier Celtic Cross , celtic spirals and knots are interwoven onto the cross. The Celts believed that these never ending knots represented the never ending journey of life from this world to the next  and back again, thus combing Christian symbolism with Celtic. Latter version of the celtic cross are found carved with passages from the gospels.

Celtic crosses can be found dotted all over Ireland and are made of stone standing around seven to 10 feet tall.

Like many Celtic symbols, the Celtic Cross has different meanings and symbolism attached to it. For some, the symbolic meaning comes from the ring around the arms and base of the Cross, and the idea is that the circle offers support and strength to the Cross.

Others believe that the ring represents continuity and eternity. Different suggestions indicate that it also represents the spiritual realm, while others believe it symbolizes the Celtic Shield.

Some experts also believe that the four arms of the Cross represent the four directions: North, South, East, and West. Another theory implies that the Cross represents the four Celtic elements: Fire, Water, Air, and Earth.