Sorry for delay with the requests regarding flags. I had to work out some details before committing to print. We don't do flags commercially, all flags would be one off commissioned work. But we do appreciate that some people may want a flag for various personal reasons and who can blame them!

Indeed, the Irish Brigade flags especially in French service are beautiful, this is a fact we can all agree on, colourful, vibrant and symbolic. Consequently, we have decided to offer flags to any one wishing to add one to their collection.

I have as comprehensively as possible, provided information for potential customers to consider before deciding to buy one. If you have any question please feel free to contact me any-time (my email is below).

Flags of the Wild Geese

Option 1: The 100% silk & hand painted in oil:

This is basically a silk canvass hand painted by the internationally recognised artist, Seán Ó Brógáin. Although, this is an expensive option it is the most authentic method. Considered by many as more than a mere flag, but rather artwork that would take pride of place in any Wild Geese home. The cost is indicative of the high quality of skill and time required to produce these; all pricing is done individually. This is due to the variety of designs in our library and availability of the correct silk weight and type. We have approx 20 Jacobite designs and numerous Williamite colours available. We also have a number of colours from the Confederate wars of 1641-1653 and other medieval colours of various heritage. Oireas Historical Services are the only group in Ireland that use an Option 1 and 2 as part of our display. These flags must be stored rolled in heavy black fabric sleeve, to protect them from UV degradation.Option 1 is ideal for: high quality museum displays, high quality living history, gifts and presentations.
 

Option 2: Poly satin & hand painted in oil:

Instead of silk, these flags are again hand painted on faux silk or poly-satin, they are produced by the same method as the Silk version except in a less expensive but more durable fabric. Poly-satin is by its nature more robust than silk, thus more suitable for heavy re-enactment service and/or permanent display. It is also slightly cheaper to produce, while retaining the appearance of silk. They can be displayed more often than silk but again the UV will degrade the pigment of the paint as it would in option 1, thus it is recommended that it be stored, as per option 1 in a black sleeve. Ideal for: Museum displays, education and high quality living history.
 

Option 3: Flag printed on heavy weight flag fabric:

These are a printed versions of the flags and are produced by printing a complete period, hand painted motif directly onto the flag fabric medium. This is the most popular choice, for cost and serviceability for general display and re-enactment. These are one sided prints, but the fabric is semi-transparent thus image is visible on both sides. For those who are on a budget this is a great option. Ideal for: Wall hanging, framing, displays, re-enactment and also suits the price conscious or as an ideal gift for someone special. 
 

Note:

We use option 1, 2 and 3 in Oireas. We aim to be as authentic as possible with our equipment and accessories, we have no issue with naturally occurring wear and tear, it gives the flags character and authenticity! However, the flags can be challenging to maintain, so if you want them to remain in pristine condition we recommend you consider your options based on information we have provided above. Each flag type (option 1&2) are unique no two will be exactly the same as was the case with the originals, these are hand crafted art works, option 3 is a replicable due to printing process.

Maintenance:

All flags (Options 1,2 and 3) should be unfurled and dried naturally, if tacked to the pole with brass tacks/nails, the cloth must be dry before rolling for storage otherwise they can stain/ tarnish the colours/ cloth. Never fold to store.

Finishing the flag:

To finish the flag one should use a French military flag finial, from your period of choice and pin with brass nails, chord of choice and white silk ribbon, we can advise customers on this, as part of our service.

Historical note:

For Irish Brigade flags (French and Spanish service 1650-1792), finials should be French or Spanish style, this only applies to the post-1701 for French service, prior to this, you would have to use the English style finials. The Irish Brigade was still part of the Irish establishment of James II from 1691-1697, in other words they were still part of James II army in exile. Thus they retained all the English traditions, trappings and furnishings. This only changes when they were incorporated properly into the French army 1702. The one exception to this is of course Mountcashel’s, who were part of the French army from 1689-1775. But for all others they retained their identity from Ireland including command structure and disbanded in 1697 (post the War of the League of Augsberg 1688-1697), remaining troops were incorporated into one of the newly formed Irish foreign regiments in 1701-02 with the out break of the War of Spanish succession and death of James II. This is only a guide to consider when finishing your flag.

Ordering and delivery:

We are a small self funded non-commercial group, so we do not have these flags in stock, all orders would be subject to the curing of the paint for option 1&2. All flags must be pre-paid (Pay Pal), printed flags have a two week lead time plus postal time depending on location world wide. Please be advised, we will not send flags which are not fully cured (option 1&2) so we ask that patience used from time of ordering. Allow 6 weeks minimum from ordering for all hand painted colours, a more accurate time will be advised on at time of ordering. Printed versions are ready to ship within two weeks. All flags are 1.8m x 1.8m plus pole sleeve or if you want we can add toggle rings for conventional flag poles.

For further information drop me a mail at oireashs@yahoo.ie