A rare Irish mether, possibly 14th-15th century.
This very rare Irish mether is a highlight at Bonhams Vernacular Furniture, Folk and Naïve Art and Textiles sale online from October 4-22. Irish methers, or ‘maeddhers’, are rare and this example is thought to be from the 14th or 15th century, crafted from willow. It is illustrated in Owen Evan-Thomas’ book ‘Domestic Utensils of Wood’ and was once a part of the author’s own private collection which he amassed over 40 years, although in this time he rarely came across any similar examples. The mether would have been used during a celebration or ceremony, when ‘medd’ or ‘mead’ would be consumed from a corner of the vessel’s quadrangular rim, before being passed hand-to-hand using its large and striking handles. From a private collection in Penrith, Cumbria it is estimated at £3,000-35,000. It will be on view at Bonhams, Knightsbridge from October 20-22.