The National Museum of Ireland is showcasing the Lough Kinale Object, a significant 9th-century Irish book-shrine, as a centerpiece of the 'Words on the Wave' exhibition. The exhibition opened on May 30, 2025, and is scheduled to run until October 24, 2025. It highlights Ireland's important cultural contributions to early medieval Europe.
Discovered in 1986 in Lough Kinale, County Longford, this artifact is one of only eight surviving Irish decorative containers for sacred manuscripts. Its exceptional preservation allows viewers to appreciate intricate details, including a cross, medallions, and snake-head hinges.
Following 39 years of meticulous conservation, this remarkable piece of Irish heritage is now accessible to the public. The 'Words on the Wave' exhibition features 17 medieval manuscripts and over 100 artifacts, providing a comprehensive insight into Ireland's cultural influence during the Middle Ages.