The crystal bowl of shamrock presented to US president Joe Biden on St. Patrick’s Day was made by Eamonn Terry, owner and founder of Criostal na Rinne.

Terry (pictured), a master craftsman glass cutter with over 50 years’ experience, said the design themes are hope, history and the special relationship between Ireland and the United States.

On either side of the customary engraved inscription are panels with deep interlaced cutting which represent the shared history between Ireland and America.

Deep flowing cuts in the crystal, reminiscent of the sea, join the panels on the bowl together. “This represents Ireland as an island at the centre of the world and its connectivity with every corner of the globe, particularly the United States, through its diaspora, its shared values and interests,” said Terry.

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“At the top of the bowl four rosettes represent rising hope and ‘new life at its term’- a reference to the written word of Seamus Heaney often quoted by president Biden.

“I hope when people see the virtual presentation ceremony of the shamrock bowl they will visit our studio after the pandemic or visit our website, and experience for themselves a demonstration of the craftsmanship that goes into making hand cut crystal,” Terry added.

Terry learned his craft with Waterford Crystal and established Criostal na Rinne in Dungarvan in 1987.