High Cross celebrated in miniature

8 April 2010

Dotted across the country, High Crosses are free-standing Christian crosses made of stone and often richly decorated. Also known as Celtic Crosses, they were primarily created some time around the 8th or 9th century and used mainly as status symbols, meeting points or parish boundaries. Most High Crosses have stone-carved panels illustrating biblical narrative scenes.

High Crosses are considered as one of Ireland’s greatest contributions to art and culture in the Middle Ages. Of the many that remain in Ireland some of the most famous and best preserved examples are featured in this highly collectable stamp series. These include the crosses at Drumcliffe Cross in County Sligo, Carndonagh in County Donegal which features carvings depicting the crucifixion. Also Ahenny Cross in County Tipperary richly decorated with geometric spirals, knotwork and braids and Monasterboice Cross in County Louth.
 
This set of four beautiful stamps is designed by artist Michael Craig and features original line drawings of the four crosses mentioned above. The stamps are available at main Post Offices, online at www.irishstamps.ie, or from the GPO Philatelic Shop or by calling 01 705 7400.

For further information contact Angus Laverty at An Post Communications,
01 7058852 or 087 6867024.