The Stag - mug

Stag, Fia Beannach (antlered deer), in the Irish language, have wandered the countryside in Ireland throughout the ages, going back to the long extinct Irish elk or giant deer. The Irish Deer have featured in many tales of Irish mythology and there is one which directly concerns a Stag and the great Fionn MacCumhall. It tells how he and his hound Bran, were in pursuit of a great white stag that jumped from a precipice into a deep pool, turning into an ancient spirit hag. She pulled Bran beneath the water and to his death. Fionn’s attempt to drain the pool proved futile and in despair, he too jumped in. Immediately he aged dramatically, till all the magic of his druids allowed him to regain his youth.
The Stag 24th Dec-20th Jan. The Birch on the Tree lore Calendar.

Illustrated by Margaret McKenna