Donald Trump gifted Waterford shamrock bowl

Donald Trump gifted Waterford shamrock bowl

Taoiseach Micheál Martin presenting a House of Waterford bowl of shamrock to US President Donald Trump in the White House Photograph: Tasos Katopodis/Government of Ireland

Taoiseach Micheál Martin this week presented a Waterford-made crystal bowl containing fresh shamrock to the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, at the White House for the occasion of St Patrick’s Day 2025.

For this year’s ceremony, the crystal bowl, presented to President Trump, was created by the House of Waterford, part of the Fiskars Group.

The Waterford shamrock bowl is adorned with motifs that blend Irish heritage with craftsmanship, with the intricate patterning prominently featuring a trinity knot.

The House of Waterford shamrock bowl presented to US President Donald Trump by Taoiseach Micheal Martin at the annual shamrock ceremony as part of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the White House. Photo: Tasos Katopodis / Government of Ireland
The House of Waterford shamrock bowl presented to US President Donald Trump by Taoiseach Micheal Martin at the annual shamrock ceremony as part of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the White House. Photo: Tasos Katopodis / Government of Ireland

A statement from the Department of the Taoiseach explains: "This emblem is deeply rooted in Celtic culture and represents the eternal interconnectedness of life through its three interweaving loops. It is also an expression of unity, strength and endurance."

"Waterford designers have also introduced artful references to the United States to complement the trinity knot. The 50-point star on the base represents the states of the union, for example, and delicately etched rosettes reflect the décor of the White House."

The live shamrock contained within the bowl was provided by Living Shamrock, a company based in Ballinskelligs, County Kerry. The fresh shamrock was grown and harvested for export with the required phytosanitary certifications.

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