This is a rare Vase dating to 1978. Waterford - Tom Hayes, signed, dated and Piece 1 of a limited 250 pieces. Tom's mastery is on show here and the quality of the etching is superb. Tom's work represented the pinnacle of crystal artistry and it was appropriate that it was presented to people who had reached the pinnacle in their chosen fields, including Wimbledon champions, World-renowned Golfers and GAA heroes. Among many high-profile commissioned works were those presented to Nelson Mandela to commemorate the ending of apartheid and the introduction of democracy to South Africa and lanterns on the theme of peace which are part of a Peace Coach which commenced a World Tour in 1996 - a journey that is to be completed in 2000. The engraved lanterns were blessed in turn by Pope John Paul II and the Archbishop of Canterbury. Both church leaders requested to meet the artist. Tom travelled to the Vatican to meet the Pope and to Lambeth Palace to meet the Archbishop. It was particularly appropriate that his last piece was presented to Gay Byrne to mark his last Late Late Show.
This is a rare piece depicting Hamlet holding the skull representing the duality of life and death. Hamlet symbolizing life, the skull in his hand portraying death. Conditon Very Good.
Height 11" (28cm) Max Diam 4.5" (11.25cm) €790