Dublin convent’s contents to be auctioned off as nuns sell 20-acre site

The contents of a historic south Dublin convent will go under the hammer in a major auction after the nuns sold the 20-acre site.

The Sisters of St Joseph of Cluny Convent in Killiney are set to auction off the contents of the building following its sale. The online auction, which will feature 450 lots and is valued at over €100,000, is scheduled for next Tuesday, June 25.

It’s being facilitated by antiques dealer Niall Mullen and auctioneer Aidan Foley. The convent and part of its land have been sold, with the Sisters preparing to relocate to different locations within their order. The St Joseph of Cluny Secondary School will remain unaffected.

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The auction will include the entire interior of the convent, featuring items in excellent condition as well as many vintage pieces from other sources. The oldest pieces date back to the early 19th century, with items spanning up to mid-century.

A clock crafted by renowned clockmaker John Smith carries the highest estimate of €4,000-€6,000. Smith hailed from a secluded fishing village in Scotland and was known for his exceptional craftsmanship.

Among the lots are several items of ecclesiastical interest, including the chapel altar, multiple tabernacles, and striking religious imagery. Music enthusiasts may be interested in the walnut organ by the Burdett Organ Company, a F Dorner & Sohn upright piano, and a Liebliche Gitarr Zither.

Sister Maeve, a representative of the order, said: “The sisters that worked here through the years are happy to move on and are proud of their legacy. “We have created a tradition of holistic education within the schools here, caring for every aspect of the person and their development.

“This was brought about through good academic standards, but also promoting areas such as games and music, social awareness with the games hall and astro turf being points of pride. We are moving out of the convent and continue to support the secondary school as co-trustees, which can be done remotely.

“We are proud of the legacy we have created together with the past and current pupils of the schools, and are happy that the secondary school is being left in exceptional hands.” Public viewing of the lots will take place at the convent from Saturday to Tuesday.

The auction runs online only on Tuesday at 6pm via Aidan Foley at easyliveauction.com.

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