Wall monument - effigial

The National Monuments Service's description

In Kilcredan church (CO077-04302-), at E end of S wall, opposite Harris memorial (CO077-04303-). Monumental tomb of Sir Robert Tynte, which he erected himself in 1636 (incorrectly given as 1663 by Smith 1750, vol. 1,130 and others e.g. Potterton 1975, 89-90); Tynte died 1643. Tomb suffered considerable damage after church stripped of its roof in 1924 (see photos: Lee 1929, opp. p 86; Coleman 1913, opp. p 68) and also in 19th century when it was proposed to remove tomb to St. Mary's, Youghal (The Irish Builder, April 15, 1883, p. 127). It consists of a chest tomb on which rests full-size recumbent figure of Tynte clad in armour and apparently once 'with his sword by his side' (Ruby 1910-12); face worn smooth and lowerlegs missing. Flanked at head and feet by two kneeling female figures, said to be his two wives Phillippa and Elizabeth (Fleming 1903, 156-7); both missing heads, hands and upper torso. Above effigy is a square stone tablet, with commerative Latin inscription (Fleming 1903, 156) which roughly translates as 'here lies the body of Robert Tynte, knight, of the privy council of Munster, fifth son of Edmund Tynte, Esq., of Wrexhall, in the county Somerset, in England, who gained his distinction by the sword. He caused this church and monument to be built, by the providence of Almighty God, in the year of our Lord 1636' (Anon 1901-3). Tablet set in aediculated frame; entablature was supported by four Ionic columns but none remain. Above this again is the Tynte shield of arms set in a decorative border. Monument is unsigned. Shelter recently erected over tomb by Cork County Council.

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009