PAT’S PRINCELY PIECES

By royal appointment master craftsman ships wares to Clarence House

‘BY royal command’ is something master craftsman Pat Broderick never imagined would apply to his work. But having made an impression on Prince Charles during his visit to Killarney last June, Pat’s work was shipped to Clarence House in London on Friday last.

The prince commissioned Pat to make an egg basket and traditional eggs’ nest, which is crafted in the old three-plait weave. It’s also thought the prince is interested in a Súgan chair for his residence.

Newcastle West native Pat is the master craftsman at Muckross House and Traditional Farm. In many ways, he and Charles are kindred spirits as both have a genuine appreciation and love for ancient crafts and artisan skills. Pat said Charles’ recognition in his crafts is an appreciation of the old Irish countryside way of life.

“I think this mutual appreciation is the reason why Prince Charles and I clicked on the day. He is a very pleasant man, and he showed genuine interest and respect for Irish crafts. We’ll see what happens after this as it opens up opportunities for me. It’s very positive,” Pat said.

He described the ‘chain of contact’ involved when dealing with the prince. Even Pat’s communication is in the old-fashioned way as he sits down and corresponds with Prince Charles via handwritten letter.

“I write letters to his secretary which are then forwarded to the prince. The items have to be cleared in the embassy in Dublin first before being sent to the UK. There is strict protocol involved.”

Pat, who also works as a heritage specialist with the Heritage Council, demonstrating crafts in schools and Day Care Centres, also made a specially commissioned chair for President Mary MacAleese during her time in Áras an Uachtaráin. But royal recognition has raised his work to an international level.

“I never thought this would happen. I thought the Áras would be the pinnacle, but this has raised the profile of what I do even more. It’s also thanks to the people at Muckross House and Traditional Farm for allowing me to do the presentation for the royal couple in June,” Pat said.

Photo by Valerie O’Sullivan In June, Charles, Prince of Wales, commissioned Master Craftsman Pat Broderick to make an egg basket and traditional eggs nest which is crafted in the old three plait weave . The beautifully made crafts left Muckross House last week, bound for Clarence House, home of the prince and his wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall. The prince also asked Pat to make an Irish traditional súgán chair.

Photo Valerie O’Sullivan The royal couple are given a demonstration of Straw making by Pat Broderick at Muckross Traditional Farms during their visitin June.