The harp as a symbol of the Irish people is discussed. The first part of the paper discusses the early use of the harp in Irish society and how the magical powers of this instrument affected the natives and invaders of the small island for centuries. From the time of the Celtic occupation of Ireland in 500 BC, music played by harpers has been associated with ancient warfare and with banquets and ceremonious occasions, e.g., song-loving poets accompanied by harpists could stop confrontations on the Celtic battlefield, and the Irish Parliament traditionally had a banquet with music after the business of the day was completed. The harp as a distinctive symbol of Ireland was introduced on the coinage by Henry VIII around 1526. As the feudal system declined and the influence of the English grew, harps were no longer heard in the banquet halls. The last of the wandering harpers died in the 18th century. The second part of the paper describes several Irish harps and examines their construction. Illustrations are provided. The paper concludes with a bibliography. (RM)