An artisan (metal worker, stone carver, blacksmith…) was respected in ancient Ireland. The craftsman held an enviable position in society. The artisans serving some of Ireland’s beloved saints were even mentioned in a triad in the ancient books:
Three chief artisans of Ireland: Tassach with Patrick, Conlaed with Brigit, and Daig with Ciaran.
According to The Brehon Laws by Laurence Ginnell, 1894, whenever an artisan delivered his work he said a blessing on it. So strong was this tradition that if it wasn’t done, fines were leveled.
I have great respect today for modern artisans because they have a talent to do something I’m not able to do. It’s a gift of beauty that most people still admire today.
But I wonder how many people today bless their work before parting with it. That seems like a good ancient practice to take up today, even without the threat of fines. I wonder how different art appreciation might be if everyone asked God’s blessing on his/her artwork. Would more people get the intended message? Would more observers be moved or experience something spiritual when admiring the piece? Or would the artist or crafter be more inspired to keep working even if no one appreciated their art? What do you think?
