Saoi

Saoi, (pl. Saoithe - lit. ""wise one"". Hist. head of poetic school; master), is the highest honour the members of Aosdána, the affiliation of artists in Ireland, can bestow upon a fellow member. No more than five living members can be so honoured at one time. The title of Saoi is is conferred by the President of Ireland (following election from among the membership of Aosdána)) and held for life.

A torc (a twist/spiral of gold, worn around the neck) is presented to each Saoi by the President.

Some members of Aosdána conferred with the title of Saoi:

• Samuel Beckett, 1984.
• Mary Lavin
• Benedict Kiely
• Louis le Brocquy, 1992
• Seán Ó Faoláin
• Francis Stewart
• Patrick Collins
• Tony O'Malley