An Edwardian Irish Trophy, By Edmund Johnson, Grafton Street, Dublin, date letter rubbed but probably 1904, In the form of an ancient Irish wooden mether, of squared flaring form with four square section handles, engraved 'Army Point to Point Ireland 1904, Heavy Weight Race, presented by HRH, the Duke of Connaught' and with details of the winner 'Hawkseye', height 30cm, weight 67oz. Footnotes: The form derives from carved wooden methers. Little is known about Irish methers or 'maeddhers' which play a part in Irish folklore and it is extremely difficult to date examples or even to be certain of what they are made from. Generally speaking, early examples are all largely considered to pre-date 1600. the word itself is thought to have derived from the drink 'medd' or 'mead'. The drink itself included herbs like rosemary, hissop and thyme before being boiled with honey. Whilst labour intensive to make it is thought that they served both a decorative and ceremonial role. The question of how they were used to drink out of has been hotly contested -most likely via the angled corners and the handles were used to pass the cup easily. Examples can be found in the Dublin Museum and Cambridge. Owen Thomas cites one of the best examples which was found preserved in a peat bog in Donegal. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing