The harp is a symbol of Ireland and Guinness, but did you know that Guinness adopted it first, before Ireland had its own government? The story behind the harp is a fascinating one that involves history, culture, and trademark issues.
The harp is based on a 14th-century Irish harp known as the O’Neill or Brian Boru harp. It is named after a legendary Irish king who united the country and fought against the Vikings. The harp is one of the oldest musical instruments in the world, and it has a special place in Irish culture. “The harp is a symbol of Ireland’s rich culture and history. It represents the soul of the nation, its music, poetry, and storytelling” .
The harp was also used by Irish rebels and patriots in the past, who saw it as a sign of resistance and independence. The harp became the official emblem of the Irish Free State in 1922, after Ireland gained its independence from Britain. However, there was a problem: Guinness had already trademarked the harp in 1876, when it started using it as its logo.
Guinness is one of the most famous and successful breweries in the world, founded by Arthur Guinness in 1759. The harp is one of three elements of the Guinness brand, along with the word Guinness and Arthur Guinness’s signature . The harp was chosen because it was a distinctive and recognizable symbol of Ireland, where Guinness originated.
Because Guinness had trademarked the harp, the government had to flip the harp to the opposite direction to avoid legal issues. “The Irish government was forced to use a mirror image of the trademarked Guinness harp. This is why today, you’ll see that official Irish documents and uniforms use a harp symbol that faces in the opposite direction to the one on a pint of Guinness” .
The difference between the two harps is subtle but significant. The Guinness harp has a straight edge on the left, while the government harp has a straight edge on the right. This is also how you can tell them apart. “The Brian Boru Harp is not actually Brian Boru’s – it dates from some four hundred years after his death. But it is a rare example of a medieval Gaelic harp, and has become an Irish symbol as such” .
The harp is still a popular and proud symbol of Ireland and Guinness today. It is also used by various other organisations and groups with links to Ireland, such as Aer Lingus, Ryanair, Trinity College Dublin, Leinster Rugby and Munster Rugby . The harp is a unique and beautiful symbol that connects Ireland and Guinness in an interesting way.
Relevant articles:
– When Guinness trademarked the harp symbol – IrishCentral, IrishCentral, April 16, 2021
– The Harp – Ireland’s Iconic Symbol Explained – Irish Jewel, Irish Jewel, September 22, 2022
– The Guinness Harp | First Floor Tarpley, First Floor Tarpley, October 15, 2023
– How the harp became a symbol of Ireland and Guinness – The Irish Post, The Irish Post, October 17, 2023