Those with an interest in the historic movement for Irish independence are in for a remarkable find, coming 8th October.

A truly extraordinary piece will soon be available at Easy Live Auction, hosted by Eastbourne Auctions—a silver-plated calling card tray belonging to Thomas James Clarke, one of the leaders of the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB) and a pivotal figure in the 1916 Easter Rising.

This is an incredibly rare, tangible link to a monumental moment in Irish history, that helped define its path toward independence. What makes this item even more special is that it comes with a personal letter addressed to “Joseph”, from “Your Brother, John”, dated 26^th April 1916, just two days after the start of the start of the Easter Rising.

Thomas James Clarke

Thomas James Clarke in 1910

Born in England in 1857 to Irish parents, Thomas James Clarke moved to Ireland at a young age. His early exposure to Irish nationalism came through his family's connections as well as the turbulent political climate of the time. Clarke's fervent desire for Irish independence solidified in 1878, aged just 20, when he joined the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB), an organisation dedicated to establishing an independent Irish Republic.

In 1883, Clarke was arrested in London for his involvement in a bombing campaign orchestrated by the IRB and was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment. He spent 15 years in British prisons, and the harsh conditions he endured only proved to strengthen his resolve. Upon his release in 1898, he moved to the United States, where he continued his involvement with Irish nationalist activities. In the U.S., Clarke married Kathleen Daly, the niece of his close friend and fellow nationalist, John Daly. The couple later returned to Dublin, where Clarke opened a tobacconist shop that served as a front for his activities.

Clarke's influence within the IRB grew, and he became one of the key architects behind the 1916 Easter Rising. As a member of the military council that planned the rebellion, Clarke was instrumental in the decision to launch the uprising on Easter Monday. He took part in the occupation of the General Post Office (GPO) in Dublin, serving as a symbol of the struggle for Irish freedom. After the uprising was suppressed, Clarke was arrested and executed by firing squad on 3^rd May 1916, making him one of the first leaders to be executed. His death quickly became a rallying point for the Irish independence movement, and he is remembered today as a martyr and fierce hero of the Irish Republic.

The 1916 Easter Rising

The 1916 Easter Rising (also known as The Easter Rebellion) was a watershed moment in Ireland's long struggle for independence.

On April 24, 1916, a group of Irish nationalists, including members of the IRB, the Irish Volunteers, and the Irish Citizen Army, seized key locations in Dublin and proclaimed the establishment of the Irish Republic. The General Post Office, where Thomas James Clarke was stationed, became the rebellion's headquarters. For six days, the rebels fought fiercely against British forces in a bid to end centuries of British rule in Ireland.

Although the uprising was ultimately suppressed, and its leaders, including Clarke, were executed soon thereafter, the event had a profound impact on the Irish psyche. The harsh response from the British authorities galvanised public opinion in Ireland, and the Easter Rising soon became a symbolisation of the quest for Irish self-determination. It sparked a series of events that eventually led to the War of Independence (1919–1921) and the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922.

The 1916 Easter Rising is now regarded as a defining moment in Irish history — a mark of the birth of modern Irish nationalism, eventually setting the stage for Ireland's subsequent independence.

The skeleton of the General Post Office can be seen on the left, with Nelson’s Pillar to the right, in the aftermath of the Easter Rising.

Thomas James Clarke’s Calling Card Tray

The calling card tray, presented to Clarke in 1898 by the IRB, is indicative of his early involvement in the fight for Irish independence.

This piece, preserved with care over the years, offers a glimpse into the life of a revolutionary, whose influence inexorably shaped the trajectory of Irish history. The inscription "IRB Presented to Thomas Clarke September 1898" indicates Clarke's status within the organisation, as well as reflecting the deep respect in which he was held by his fellow revolutionaries.

Calling card tray, presented to Clarke in 1898 by the IRB. View Lot here.

A Letter from Dublin

Accompanying the tray is a personal letter dated 26^th April 1916, just two days after the start of the Easter Rising. Addressed to ‘Joseph’ from ‘John’ at 8 Granby Pl., Dublin, the letter offers a poignant look into the immediate aftermath of the uprising. It reads:

"Dear Joseph,

Please care for these writings and small plaque that was awarded to Tom when he was released.

Kathleen is bearing up well; we await this kangaroo court and we will come to London for Christmas.

Love from the family.

Your Brother, John."

The letter sheds a light on the anxieties and hopes of Clarke's family during this turbulent period, mentioning Kathleen Clarke, who was Thomas's wife. The letter connects to the personal and familial side of Clarke's life as well as offering insight into the emotional atmosphere surrounding the historic events of 1916.

Personal letter dated 26th April 1916, just two days after the start of the Easter Rising. Addressed to ‘Joseph’ from ‘John’. View Lot.

Don't Miss the Auction on October 8th

This Lot is expected to attract collectors from around the world. It is an exceptionally rare, tangible artefact from Ireland's revolutionary history; an opportunity to honour the legacy of Thomas James Clarke, as well as the copious others who fought tirelessly for their freedom.

Hosted by Eastbourne Auctions, the auction is set for Tuesday 8^th October from 9:30am BST.

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