Homecoming for Killererin chalices

Chalices in museum date back to 1730s

CHALICES commissioned by the Parish Priest of Killererin in the 18th century are among the featured items in a new display at Galway City Museum.

The display offers a chance to view a rare selection of silverwork from Galway’s most renowned silversmith, Richard Joyce, the credited creator of the Claddagh Ring.

Among the items on show are two silver chalices dated 1730 and 1731, commissioned by Fr Edmond Burke [Bourk], a former Parish Priest of Killererin.

The chalices were gifted by the family of student John Ambrose Murphy in 1887 to Mount St Marys, a Jesuit College in Lancashire. They appear to have remained there for over a century, until appearing at auction last year.

The 1730 silver chalice bears the maker’s mark and the anchor ‘town’ mark. An inscription around the base of the chalice reads: 'Pray for Edmond Bourk Parish Priest of Killereran & Family Who Bought Me For Y'e Hon'r of God & Use of Y'e Convent of Kinalehin An Dom 1730'.

The 1731 silver chalice also bears the maker's mark and the anchor ‘town’ mark. It is likely a later replacement. The inscription around the base reads: 'Pray for Edm'd Bourk Parish Priest of Killeran & Family Who Bought Me For Y'e Honour of God & Use of Y'e Conv't of Raffan 1731'.

“These chalices are not only exceptional examples of the craftsmanship of Richard Joyce, but also deeply important cultural and religious artefacts connected to the history of Galway and its people.

“Their survival, journey abroad, and eventual return to public view marks a true homecoming,” stated Martin Dunphy of the Poleberry Foundation, which is loaning the museum the two Joyce chalices.

The display was launched by the Chief Executive of Galway City Council, Leonard Cleary and Mr Dunphy at an event held in the museum last Friday June 26. It will demonstrate the liturgical and social significance of chalices in the early 18th century, as well as the quality of Joyce’s silverwork.

Other Attractions

Alongside the chalices, visitors can also view other pieces by Richard Joyce from the National Museum of Ireland Collection that demonstrate his skill and range as a silversmith.

They include a Silver Monstrance from 1726, used to display the consecrated Eucharistic host, and a Pepper Caster dated 1730, a rare example of a piece of Galway silver designed for domestic use.

“We are delighted to be able to share these fine examples of Galway silver with the public and visitors with a special display at Galway City Museum, showcasing our shared heritage and instilling pride in our history and tradition,” commented Galway City Council CE Leonard Cleary.

The display of Richard Joyce silver at Galway City Museum is now open and runs until March 2027.