Rory Gallagher’s iconic Fender Stratocaster guitar is coming home to Ireland after it sold at auction for more than €1 million.
The guitar was purchased by Dennis Desmond’s Live Nation Gaiety Ltd but will be donated to the National Museum of Ireland.
In all Gallagher’s collection of instruments sold for nearly €2.8 million at Bonham's auction house in London yesterday.
The whole collection went on public view for the first time ever ahead of the sale.
Rory Gallagher’s iconic Stratocaster guitar. Image: BonhamsLive Nation bought the main item with a view to donating it as part of a deal brokered by the Department for Culture.
Culture Minister Catherine Martin said the deal means the famous Strat will now be "preserved in the ownership of the State and made available to view for the public and Rory Gallagher fans around the world".
“I’m absolutely delighted that Rory’s guitar is coming home to Ireland,” she said
“Since the sale of the Rory Gallagher collection was announced, I have shared in the enthusiasm of the nation, and music fans in particular, that Rory’s iconic guitar would be secured as an inspirational addition to our national heritage collection and a testimonial to his many achievements.”
Minister Martin said Gallagher was “instrumental in establishing Ireland on the global stage as a centre for rock music,” noting that his authentic, blues-based style was beloved by fans all over the world.
“This generous donation to the museum will not only allow the famous instrument to be protected for future generations and musicians but will also attract visitors from far and wide,” she said.
“I look forward to hearing more of the museum’s plans to showcase the famous Strat, which I understand will include Cork, where the legendary musician grew up.”
Rory Gallagher with his guitars. Image: BonhamsLive Nation plans to donate the guitar to the National Gallery under the Taxes Consolidation Act.
