This rectangular pendant was originally designed in the 70s by artisan Michael D. Hilliar, appointed head of the precious metals workshop set up by the KDW (Kilkenny Design Workshops) initiative. KDW itself had been established following the Córas Tráchtála’s ‘Design in Ireland’ report in 1961.

Hilliar later licensed his design out to other producers, but this particular pendant bears his maker’s mark, the initials “MDH” inside a shamrock, and I believe this was made in the 70s.

The pendant is also stamped “Made in Ireland”, “925” (for silver), and with the Dublin assay mark; chain is also marked “925”.

The piece tells the history of Ireland on a tablet in pictorial form—the 12 symbols depicted are: St. Patrick, Round Tower, Viking Warrior, Normal Soldier, Dublin Castle, King William, The Act of Union, The Great Famine, The Immigrant Ship, The GPO, The Partition, and a question mark or Domine Quo Vadis (Unknown Future).

In great vintage condition—there is a faint mark toward the lower third, but I believe this was made in the casting process; some very faint scuffing and the pendant is tarnished, commensurate with age, but this could easily be polished to a bright shine by the new owner.

Approximate measurements: pendant 2.3” x 1.1”, pendant weighs 6.2g; chain 16” long, weighs 1.4g.