This year’s Belleek annual ornament is inspired by Mussenden Temple which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean between Downhill Demesne and Castlerock on part of the Bishop of Derry and Earl of Bristol’s Estate. Originally built 1785 as a summer library, the Roman architecture is inspired by the Temple of Vesta, located in Italy. Around the top there is a Latin inscription which reads, “Tis pleasant, safety to behold from shore, the troubled sailor, and hear the tempest roar.” The Temple is named Mussenden in memory of Frideswide Mussenden, cousin of the builder, Fredrick Augustus Hervey.
The Belleek Mussenden Temple ornament is enhanced with hand-painted, mother of pearl, luster on the roof along with gold highlights and a lucky shamrock. It is further enhanced with embossed details, including columns, doors, and windows.
The Belleek annual ornament measures 3" tall x 2" wide x 2" deep; the functional bell is crafted of fine china. It is ready to hang on your tree with the included Belleek branded green ribbon; it is hand painted and hand crafted in Belleek, Ireland.
The annual Belleek China Christmas ornament is gift boxed with a shamrock history card, complements of The Irish Gift House.
