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The Fox
The Fox
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The Fox

€75.00

Celtic Mask – Clonfert Cathedral:

Drawing inspiration from the cunning and adaptability of the fox, this Celtic mask highlights the artistic legacy of Clonfert Cathedral, expertly crafted to enrich any collection with a touch of Irish mystique.

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Description

Clonfert Cathedral, located in County Galway, Ireland, is home to a stunning ceramic sculpture of the Fox. This remarkable piece of art is a faithful recreation of a sculpture that can be found on the grounds of the cathedral and is a testament to the incredible skills and artistry of the sculptor.

The Fox sculpture stands at the entrance to Clonfert Cathedral, welcoming visitors to this magnificent example of medieval architecture. The Fox is a significant symbol in Irish culture, representing cunning and wit, and its presence at the entrance to the cathedral is a nod to the intelligence and creativity of the builders and craftsmen who worked on the site.

The intricate details of the Fox’s fur and features are expertly captured in ceramics, making this sculpture a true work of art. The rich and vibrant colors of the ceramics bring the Fox to life, and its lifelike qualities make it a must-see for anyone visiting Clonfert Cathedral.

Whether you are a fan of Irish culture, an art lover, or simply appreciate the beauty of medieval architecture, the Fox sculpture at Clonfert Cathedral is a must-visit destination. The sculpture’s prominent location and stunning craftsmanship make it a highlight of any visit to the cathedral, and its cultural significance adds an extra layer of meaning and appreciation to this incredible work of art.

 

Making one mask is a long process and can take up to 2 weeks. I use stoneware clay which means that the clay is fired at a much higher temperature than earthenware which makes it frost safe.

The first step is to sculpt the head itself which is the used to make a plaster mold. This plaster mold then is used to press the clay into and produce the different types of heads.

The clay is then pressed into the mold and left in the mold for 24 hours until some of the moisture is absorbed and it becomes easier to loosen the clay head from the mold.

The clay heads then need to dry for up to a week. When completely dry they are sanded around the edges and loaded into the kiln for their bisque fire, which takes up to 14 hours. This is a firing that heats the heads to 1000°C. The kiln then takes almost 2 days to cool down so that the door can be opened.

If the door is opened beforehand thermal shock occurs and the clay pieces may crack. After this the heads are no longer brittle and are highly moisture absorbent. This is when the pieces are glazed and returned to the kiln for the second firing called the glaze fire. This also takes between 11 and 14 hours and the kiln take almost 2 days to cool down before the door can be opened and the finished pieces can be admired.

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