Portable Irish harp
On loan to The Met
This work of art is currently on loan to the museum.The harp is an enduring emblem of Irish identity, particularly when it embodies Hibernia, the winged genius, protector, and personification of Ireland. A popular symbol of Irish independence and resistance against English rule, the harp was a mascot of the Society of United Irishmen, an organization that fought for national sovereignty. Their motto declared, "It is new strung and shall be heard." Drawing on these associations, this example echoes the instrument’s historic form but incorporates new technology: individual pitch-adjusting levers. This enables Egan’s creation to simultaneously convey Ireland’s ancient heritage and its modernity.
Artwork Details
- Title: Portable Irish harp
- Artist: John Egan (active ca. 1804–1841)
- Date: ca. 1821
- Medium: Spruce, walnut, maple, lime wood, brass, ivory
- Dimensions: 40.9 x 17 1/2 x 7.87 in. (103.9 x 44 x 20 cm)
- Classifications: Chordophone-Harp, (not assigned)
- Credit Line: Royal Academy of Music, London
- Rights and Reproduction: © Royal Academy of Music
- Curatorial Department: Musical Instruments
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