Sulptor Holger Lönze from South Kerry, who demonstrated how Bronze objects were cast with the help of Rory Wright and his dad Tommy. Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTDKERRY County Museum offered a wide range of free events for National Heritage Week for the enjoyment of locals and tourists alike.
“This year’s theme is heritage at risk and we were thrilled to welcome sculptor Holger Lönze and artist Karen Hendy, who demonstrated how Bronze objects were cast in prehistory and medieval times,” said education officer Claudia Köhler.
The event shed light on the making of two iconic medieval objects from Kerry: a small cruxifixion figure from Skellig Michael and the Mortara brooch from Ballylongford.
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At the event visitors experienced first hand how these objects would have been made more than 1000 years ago, using the same materials, tools and techniques.
Holger, who has a life-long interest in experimental archaeology, especially in Bronze casting, has made a wide range of museum-quality replicas.
Recently, Kerry County Museum acquired a replica of the Derrynane Bronze Age horn from him and commissioned Holger to make replicas of iconic bronze objects from Kerry.
“We have those wonderful objects but we rarely know who made them or how they were crafted long ago. Experimental archaeologists and artists like Holger remind us that the past was shaped, forged, carved, and lived by people much like us and we all can relate to that,” said Claudia.
Kerry County Museum had more than 5000 visitors during the Rose of Tralee, Feile Tralee and National Heritage Week from August 14-22.
Free events included our fabulous Gowns of Glory Rose of Tralee dress exhibition at the Rose Hotel , free entry to the museum, medieval living history displays and two days of bronze casting demonstrations with Holger and his team.
“We are thrilled with how well all our events were received and would like to thank the Heritage Council, Failte Ireland & Kerry County Council for their support – and a special thanks you to all our visitors from Kerry, Ireland and abroad,” added Claudia.
