Fermoy Shamrock Glass Bowl

Glass Bowl presentation to the City of Brussels, on the occasion of the Brussels Saint Patrick’s Day Parade of the Nations & Regions, Sunday 15 March 2020 at the City Hall in the historic Grand Place in the EU Capital.

This handcrafted glass bowl has been specially commissioned to mark the 75th anniversary of the ending of the Second World War and in recognition of the biggest sacrifice of any Irish-born family who gave their lives in battle during the war. Also, to acknowledge the Irish contribution to the liberation of Belgium and Europe.

The glass bowl honours the memory of the five Sheehan brothers who were born in the heart of Fermoy town. Their home was a family bakery overlooking the banks of the beautiful river Blackwater in north Cork. The Sheehan family emigrated to Vancouver, Canada. Three of the Sheehan brothers, Harry, Frank and Edward died fighting for the Royal Canadian Air-force and are buried in the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. Two more brothers, Michael and Thomas who fought with the Canadian Army and Navy, survived.

The five green threads running through the design represent the five Sheehan Brothers.  Woven from the same fabric, sharing the threads of family, childhood, emigration, war and honour.

The organic wave shape is inspired by Fermoy and the beautiful Blackwater Valley with its rolling hills and flowing river.