Graveslab

The National Monuments Service's description

Located within a graveyard (DG064-003001-) which encloses two medieval churches, St Mary’s (DG064-003002-) and St. Connell’s (DG064-003006-), a fragment of a high cross (DG064-003008-), four cross slabs (DG064-003004-; DG064-003005-; DG064-0030009-; DG064-003010-) and a graveslab (DG064-003007-). Another cross-slab (DG064-003003-) is now missing. This complex of monuments, a National Monument in state ownership (No. 658), is located on the E side of Inishkeel Island in good pasture land. This small island which lies in a sheltered spot c. 500m offshore is accessible on foot at low tide.

This grave slab (dg064-003007-) is located immediately S of St. Connell's Church. It is broken transversely and part of it does not survive. The original dimensions were c. 1.83m × c. O.75mx .095m. The decoration depicts a crucifixion scene, Christ with outstretched arms clad in a long robe. His feet are out-turned and possibly shoe-clad. A six legged animal and two swans are located above the left arm while a similar animal and one swan appear above the right arm. An angel and a human figure holding a spear-like object appear under each arm but the left side is partially missing. A band which surrounds Christ is formed into a combined spiral and triquetra design under the feet of the two adjoining figures.

The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated.

Date of upload: 22 September 2008