AN OVERLOOKED STATUE OF THE VIRGIN MARY
During my numerous visits to Kilkenny, I've thoroughly explored the area around St. Mary's Cathedral. However, it wasn't until 2022 that I noticed a captivating statue tucked away at the Black Mill Street end of the building. This statue depicts the Virgin Mary with her foot triumphantly placed on a serpent. While detailed information about this particular piece is scarce, its symbolism is deeply rooted in Catholic tradition.
A Symbol of Triumph:
The image of Mary crushing the serpent's head is a powerful symbol of her role in the redemption of humanity. It draws inspiration from Genesis 3:15, often interpreted as a prophecy of Christ's victory over sin and death, with Mary playing a crucial part. The serpent represents evil, and Mary's dominance over it signifies the triumph of good over evil, purity over temptation, and grace over sin.
Inside the Cathedral: A Tale of Restoration and Rediscovery
While this external statue remained hidden to me for so long, the interior of St. Mary's Cathedral holds its own treasures. In 2021, extensive restoration work began, revitalising the Lady Chapel and the Chapel of St. Joseph. The mosaics, dating back to the 1930s, were meticulously cleaned, and the stained-glass windows were repaired. The altars in both chapels were also restored, enhancing the beauty of the cathedral's centre apse.
During this restoration, the statues of St. Joseph and Our Lady were returned to their original positions within the sanctuary. The statue of Our Lady, a stunning Carrera marble piece by the Italian sculptor Benzoni, dates back to 1857. It depicts Mary treading on a serpent holding an apple, standing upon a pedestal of Kilkenny marble. The statue of St. Joseph, sculpted by Pietro Lazzerini, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of this renowned artist who also contributed to Thurles Cathedral.
Reflecting on the Hidden Gem
As I revisit my memories of Kilkenny, the statue of the Virgin Mary at the Black Mill Street end of the cathedral stands out as a hidden gem. Its presence, though understated, offers a powerful reminder of Mary's role in salvation history and her enduring symbolism within the Catholic faith.
A Symbol of Triumph:
The image of Mary crushing the serpent's head is a powerful symbol of her role in the redemption of humanity. It draws inspiration from Genesis 3:15, often interpreted as a prophecy of Christ's victory over sin and death, with Mary playing a crucial part. The serpent represents evil, and Mary's dominance over it signifies the triumph of good over evil, purity over temptation, and grace over sin.
Inside the Cathedral: A Tale of Restoration and Rediscovery
While this external statue remained hidden to me for so long, the interior of St. Mary's Cathedral holds its own treasures. In 2021, extensive restoration work began, revitalising the Lady Chapel and the Chapel of St. Joseph. The mosaics, dating back to the 1930s, were meticulously cleaned, and the stained-glass windows were repaired. The altars in both chapels were also restored, enhancing the beauty of the cathedral's centre apse.
During this restoration, the statues of St. Joseph and Our Lady were returned to their original positions within the sanctuary. The statue of Our Lady, a stunning Carrera marble piece by the Italian sculptor Benzoni, dates back to 1857. It depicts Mary treading on a serpent holding an apple, standing upon a pedestal of Kilkenny marble. The statue of St. Joseph, sculpted by Pietro Lazzerini, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of this renowned artist who also contributed to Thurles Cathedral.
Reflecting on the Hidden Gem
As I revisit my memories of Kilkenny, the statue of the Virgin Mary at the Black Mill Street end of the cathedral stands out as a hidden gem. Its presence, though understated, offers a powerful reminder of Mary's role in salvation history and her enduring symbolism within the Catholic faith.
AN OVERLOOKED STATUE OF THE VIRGIN MARY