Cross-slab

The National Monuments Service's description

In the SE end of the graveyard (GA021-026026-) on High Island. Recorded by Fisher (2014, 203, no. 6, Fig. 7.1), this is one of three decorated cross-slabs (see also GA021-026036- and GA021-026038-) associated with Grave 3. It is a limestone slab (L 1.62m; Wth 0.37m; T 0.1m), one of only two found on the island, the other being the footstone (GA021-026038-) of this grave. A central double band, in low relief, running the length of the slab is attached to a central roundel and three D-shaped terminals at its W end. Fret ornament is visible in the roundel and top terminal, and there is a boss at the right angle of the latter. Below the central roundel, a further pair of D-shaped terminals is visible. In the lower part of the slab faint traces of decoration mirroring that at its upper end are evident. Traces of an incised border are also preserved in places along the edge of the slab. The slab acts as the cover stone of the grave. (White Marshall and Rourke 2000, 151-2, no. 18)

Compiled by: Olive Alcock

Date of upload: 19 November 2015

References

Fisher, I. (revised by Scally, G. and Maddern, C.) 2014 Catalogue of cross-slabs. In G. Scally, High Island (Ardoileán), Co. Galway: Excavation of an early medieval monastery. Archaeological Monograph Series 10. Dublin. The Stationery Office.

White Marshall, J. and Rourke, G.D. 2000 High Island: an Irish monastery in the Atlantic. Dublin. Town House and Country House.