The cauldron of Dagda or the cauldron of bounty

From Muirias was brought the cauldron of Dagda;

No company would go from it unsatisfied.

Lebor Gabal Erenn

The last of the four treasures of the Tuatha Dé Danann is the Cauldron of Dagda.  In Celtic daily life, the cauldron was the most important item of a house.  It was used for cooking, brewing, dyeing, and working leather.  It was usually found in the center of home for ease of access.  Therefore, it became a symbol of the center of the cosmos.

Dagda was a god of the old who was, amongst other things, the god of excess and abundance.  Because Dagda was known for these things, it makes sense that his cauldron would be able to feed any number of people.  However, this cauldron was also known for being able to resurrect slain warriors or heal any injured man.

This cauldron in Tralee park, was designed and made by the the local and talented artist Paula O' Sullivan from Tralee

As we learned yesterday from the Bard, being able to house and feed people who were in need was important to the Irish of yore.  If you denied or were unable to feed someone, you might get mocked and inflicted with boils!

Also, the cauldron was placed in front of the Stone of Destiny.  So, when the stone roared with the announcement of the new king, the goddess Danu would emerge from the cauldron in order to crown the new king! 

And those are the Four Treasures of the Tuatha Dé Danann.  I hope you all understand, as I was made to, how important these objects were to the high kings of Ireland.