Prairie Falcon: Diarmiud

Found Object Assemblage: Clay, Leather, Bottle Caps, Paint | 25" x 15" x 8"

The Story:

Diarmuid and Grainne

Origin: Irish

Oklahoma Correlation: Prairie Falcon and Grey Heron

This great tale from Ireland is believed to have been an inspiration for the Legends of King Arthur. In this story, Grainne, daughter of the High King of Ireland, was the most beautiful princess in the land. Princes and Chieftains far and wide courted her, seeking her hand in marriage. Among them was the old chief, Fionn MacCool who wanted her as a second wife. One-night, Grainne met Diarmuid, one of Fionn's best warriors. She fell in love with Diarmuid at first sight. When she professed her love, Diarmuid rejected her for his loyalty was to Fionn. Grainne refused to take no for an answer, so she cast a spell Diarmuid causing him to fall in love with her. They ran away together, hotly pursued by Fionn and his men.

Diarmuid and Grainne ran across all of Ireland, hiding together among the caves and woodlands. Grainne became pregnant with Diarmuid's child. With Fionn drawing close, Diarmuid and Grainne ran to the heath of Benbulben where they were confronted by giant boar. Legend has it that a wild boar was the only creature that could harm Diarmuid. Diarmuid wrestled the charging boar to protect Grainne and his unborn child. He killed the beast but not before being gored by the boar's tusk.

Fionn found the dying warrior in the arms of Grainne. Grainne begs Fionn to save Diarmuid with a drink of water cupped in Fionn's magical hands. Fionn refuse multiple times until his son implored him to help Diarmuid. By the time Fionn agreed it was too late. Diarmuid had died in Grainne's lap; a vial of magic love potion still hanging from her neck.

- Sunni Mercer