Belleek Classic Annual Basket 2019 Celestial

Belleek Pottery's long running tradition of basket weave was introduced by William Henshaw in 1867 and carries on to this day.  The Celestial Basket has been inspired by the Sun and the Moon; the duality and balance they bring , their vital importance and the ancient Irish knowledge of this. The Newgrange monument, County Meath, was designed so the passageway and chamber are aligned and the Sun shines into the chamber in the morning during the winter solstice. The 'Calender Stone', located at Newgrange's sister site Knowth, is a large kerb stone depicting crescent and full moon shapes believed to be mappings of lunar cycles. 

This basket has been lovingly hand-woven in the shape of a star and features hand applied elements depicting celectial bodies; The Sun, the Moon and the shooting stars. The Sun rises bringing light and warmth: essential for all life. Blooming on either side are warm, hand painted sunflowers, representing longevity and strength. The Sun sets and the Moon rises; helping to sustain our climate, giving us tides and bringing darkness. Hand-crafted Moonflowers blossom on either side with contrasting symbolism of delicacy and limited time. The Moonflowers are decorated with cooler tones.

This striking basket receives a special backstamp and will only be produced for the year of 2019. 

• Measures 19.1cmL x 19.1xmW x 2.5cmH