Derrynaflan Chalice, Medieval religious vessel in Killenaule, Ireland.
The Derrynaflan Chalice is a medieval ceremonial drinking vessel made from silver, bronze, and gypsum, featuring ornately decorated handles. The piece displays careful craftsmanship and attention to detail throughout its construction.
This chalice was created around the 8th century and remained hidden at a monastic site until its discovery in 1980. The find came as part of a larger collection of religious objects buried at that location.
The chalice reflects how Irish craftspeople combined different materials and techniques to create religious objects of beauty and function. The decorative elements suggest the importance of skilled metalwork in medieval religious life.
You can see this vessel at the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin, where it is displayed alongside other pieces from the same burial site. Plan to visit during regular museum hours for the best experience.
The chalice has a hollow stem connecting system linking its three main parts together for added strength. This construction method sets it apart from similar vessels made during the same period.
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