HC Deb 01 March 1872 vol 209 cc1215-6
MR. P. SMYTH

asked the Chief Secretary for Ireland, If the circumstance of the discovery in a mound at Ardagh, in the county Limerick, of a double-handled Chalice, described as being of great antiquity and of exquisite workmanship, has been brought under the notice of the Government; whether the Government will take steps to secure for the nation so interesting an object, and add it to the collection of the Royal Irish Academy; and, if it be the intention of the Government to introduce a Bill to provide for the better preservation of Historical Monuments in Ireland?

THE MARQUESS OF HARTINGTON

Sir, in January, 1870, the Royal Irish Academy presented a Memorial to the Lord Lieutenant on the subject of the purchase by Government of several specimens of ancient Irish art, among which was that known as the "Ardagh Chalice." The Academy was asked to state what sum would be required to purchase these articles, and whether any, and, if any, how much, could be provided by private subscription. The reply in regard to the Ardagh Chalice was that Lord Dunraven, on behalf of the owner was unable to fix a price, but was willing to abide by the decision of two valuers, one to be appointed by Government and one by the owner. The Academy added that a subscription of £150 might be hoped for towards the purchase of the chalice and four silver brooches included with it. The Lord Lieutenant laid the application before the Treasury, with a strong recommendation for its favourable consideration, but their Lordships declined to propose the necessary increase to the Vote for the Academy last Session. In submitting their Estimate for the ensuing year the Academy stated that they were not in a position to take any step for the purchase of the chalice at present. An application made by them for a sum of £192 to make up £500 (the remainder of which has been subscribed) for the purchase of another ancient relic, the bell shrine of St. Patrick, has, however, been acceded to by the Treasury, and the amount will be inserted in the Estimate to be submitted to Parliament this Session.