The recent auctions in Irish Vernacular items is both appealing in its simplicity and educational in some of its uses, from Birthing Stools to butter pats – all have a tale to be told! Sheppard’s of Durrow recently sold an 17th/18th Century Irish Yew wood birthing stool, which was decorated to the top with enigmatic symbols and raised on splayed legs – original condition and found a buyer on the day for €4,800 + fees. Where will this be displayed ?
The butter pats, designs of sheaf of wheat, an acorn, or simple hatched designs, memories of days gone by.
