Waterford Art Glass
I had the opportunity to speak with Sean Egan, a master engraver with over 35 years of experience. A trained artist at the former Waterford Crystal, Sean now runs Sean Egan Art Glass in the Bishop’s Palace Museum, located in the heart of Waterford’s Viking Triangle.
See also: Waterford Travel Tips with Clodagh Fitzgerald
This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Sean Egan, owner and artist at Sean Eagan Art Glass. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page.
Waterford to Cork
Today has been really low key.
We had a relaxing morning at Faithlegg then rambled our way along Waterford's Copper Coast, before arriving in Cork city.
We joined a guided tour of the Cork Gaol before checking into The Kinglsley for the night.
A Conversation with Sean
Sean, who worked for Waterford Crystal for many years, continues to create beautiful glass pieces using copper and diamond wheels. After the factory closed in 2009, Sean opened his own business during the Irish recession. His work includes engraving prestigious trophies and unique pieces like a 9/11 tribute, which was displayed in New York.
Sean's studio offers visitors a chance to watch him work, and his creations range from high-end trophies to affordable, handcrafted glass ornaments. These ornaments, often bought by visitors, are a popular and accessible way to bring home a piece of Irish craftsmanship.
Meeting Sean Egan at the Bishop’s Palace Museum
In the heart of Waterford's Viking Triangle lies the Bishop’s Palace Museum, home to Sean Egan's workshop. Sean, a former engraver at Waterford Crystal for over 35 years, now operates independently under the banner Sean Egan Art Glass. His workspace within the museum offers visitors a firsthand look at the intricate craft of glass engraving. Sean describes himself as an artist who brings glass to life using copper and diamond wheels, carving intricate designs into glass. Reflecting on his journey, Sean shared how the closure of the Waterford Crystal factory in 2009 led him to start his own business during Ireland's recession. He saw this challenge as an opportunity to rise above adversity and continue his craft.
The Legacy of Waterford Crystal
Once employing thousands, Waterford Crystal now operates with just around 50 employees, producing a fraction of its former output. Despite this, the brand remains synonymous with Irish craftsmanship, and Sean continues to uphold its legacy. During his tenure, he engraved prestigious trophies, including those for the Players Championship and gifts for world leaders like Presidents Obama and Trump.
One of Sean's most notable works is a glass piece commemorating 9/11. Inspired by an iconic photograph of a judge being carried out by New York City workers, Sean created this tribute despite initial opposition. The piece garnered significant attention and is now on display at the Waterford Crystal factory as a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance.
The Art of Glass Engraving
Glass engraving is a meticulous craft that requires both technical skill and artistic vision. Sean explained the process, which involves sketching a design, outlining it with a tool akin to a dentist’s drill, and then carving it deeply using copper and diamond wheels. The result is an optical illusion where light and shadow bring the design to life.
Achieving mastery in this art takes years—Sean's own journey began at age 15 with a 10-year apprenticeship. His passion remains as vibrant as ever, drawing inspiration from everyday scenes, whether it's a bird in flight or a tree swaying in the wind.
Affordable Irish Glass
Sean’s studio offers something unique: affordable, handcrafted glass pieces. Among his most popular items are Christmas ornaments, designed to be both beautiful and easy to transport. These ornaments, he noted, are often cherished souvenirs for visitors wanting to take home a piece of authentic Irish artistry.
Visiting Waterford and Beyond
After meeting Sean, I explored the Copper Coast, a UNESCO Geopark known for its scenic beauty and mining history. The drive featured stops like the Mahon Falls and the Waterford Greenway, a beautiful path for biking or walking. My day ended in Cork City, where I toured the Cork City Gaol and stayed at the Kingsley Hotel along the River Lee.
Plan Your Visit
Sean Egan welcomes visitors to his studio, typically from Monday to Friday, though he’s known to accommodate weekend visits for special groups. His workshop, located at the Bishop’s Palace Museum, is part of the broader Waterford Treasures experience, which includes five museums accessible with a single ticket. Whether you're captivated by history, art, or both, a visit to Sean’s workshop and the surrounding Viking Triangle is sure to be a highlight.
Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 170
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Android | iHeartRadio | RSS
- Discovering What Lies Beyond Blarney Castle's Famous Stone - June 12, 2025
- Step Into Morrissey’s: Abbeyleix’s Timeless Irish Pub - June 10, 2025
- Should You Accept a Rental Car Upgrade? Here’s How to Decide - June 6, 2025
