SOME 400 years after John Rothe Fitz-Piers ran a successful merchant business from his magnificent Rothe House home in Kilkenny City, Rothe House Rothe House Museum and Gardens has launched The Merchant’s Shop.
The shop will specialise in beautiful Irish craft with all profits going towards the upkeep of the ancient Tudor house.
Fronting onto Parliament Street, The Merchant’s Shop is located in what was the first of three houses built on the site and dates to 1594.
The shop is a delight of sights and smells and features a host of Kilkenny craft such as Claire Molloy ceramics, Inga Reed jewellery, Moth to a Flame candles, wood turning by Eoghan Leadbetter and Cushendale Woollen Mills.
Other craft produce include McNutt blankets, Three Hills Soap, Michelle Hanning ceramics, Julie Clarke diffusers, McKernan woollen scarves, Kerry Woollen Mills, Enchanté scented cones and decorations; and Sallyann handbags.
Sean Hackett, Kennyswell Road, Kilkenny city, whose experience straddles heritage and retail, is team leader.
“The Merchant’s Shop caters to every pocket. We have a beautiful selection of items for the home and personal gifts that start at a few euros only,” the talented local thespian told Kilkenny Press.
DELIGHTED AND PROUD
“We are delighted and proud to showcase and sell such a wonderful selection of Irish craft, including many Kilkenny producers.
“We are busy with people buying Christmas gifts,” he added.
David Fitzgerald is Chair of Rothe House Trust that operates Rothe House Museum and Gardens.
He said The Merchant’s Show is one of three houses built on this site by John Rothe Fitz-Piers, from where he ran his very successful merchant business.
“So it is appropriate to have trade once again at this location. We are already getting great feedback from customers and about how it’s a lovely addition to Parliament Street,” he said.
To celebrate the opening, The Merchant’s Shop hosts a retail evening on December 16 from 6pm to 9pm with 15% discount on all products. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served to customers.
The Merchant Shop at Rothe House is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm. Visit www.rothehouse.com and follow on Facebook and Instagram
