Lots 191 to 199 at Mealy’s three day sale in Castlecomer on October 21, 22 and 23 comprise contemporary Irish Tribal Art by Patrick Coffey, gilder, woodcarver and artist. The Cork based artist uses native woods. Having completed his apprenticeship in carving and gilding in London he worked predominantly for dealers in antiques and art around Bond St. and carved patterns for gold and silversmiths like Aspreys, Garrards and Mappin and Webb. He returned to Ireland in the 1990’s. Estimates for the pieces at Mealy’s range from 150 to 2,500 and more pieces are available at Mealy’s private online art gallery. Here are some examples:
The Wren Boy costume for Samhain (1,500-2,500).
St. Patrick (800-1,200).
A Cyclops mask used at Halloween to scare off evil spirits (150-250).