Sheela-na-gig

The National Monuments Service's description

At the exterior E gable wall of the church (DU012-031001-) there is a carving of a stone head that was identified as a possible sheela-na gig (Healy 1975, 26; Anon 1914, 257; Hartnett 1954, 179, 181; McMahon and Roberts 2001, 140-1). It comprises a carved head and neck in red sandstone, the lower portion is damaged. The facial features are well pronounced (Hartnett 1954, 179-180). Described by Hartnett as 'a second stone of similar material and style of workmanship, measuring 10" x 10", is built into the south edge of the east gable. Here the facial features are better defined. The mouth is open, the tongue protruding slightly and the jaw sharply defined. The stone appears to have been broken off at the junction of neck and body. The two carvings are not only co-eval, but they are the work of the same craftsman. It may be assumed that they were fashioned for and served the same purpose.' (Hartnett 1954, 179).
Weathering means the above description is difficult to discern.

See attached screenshots of 3D model of carved head created by Digital Heritage Age. 3D model can be accessed on the Sketchfab website at: https://skfb.ly/6vHyq

Compiled and revised by: Geraldine Stout and Caimin O'Brien

Updated by: Christine Baker

Date of revised upload: 1 February 2018

References

Anon. 1914c North County Dublin. Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland 44, 250-68.

Hartnett, P.J. 1954a Malahide "Abbey", Co. Dublin. Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland 84, 179, 181.

Healy, P. 1975b Third report on monuments and sites of archaeological interest in county Dublin. An Foras Forbartha, Dublin.

McMahon, J. and Roberts, J. 2001 The sheela-na-gigs of Ireland and Britain: the divine hag of the Christian celts - an illustrated guide. Cork. Mercier Press.