Cross-slab

The National Monuments Service's description

In the SE end of the graveyard (GA021-026026-) on High Island. Recorded by Fisher (2014, 203-4, no. 7, Fig. 7.2), this is one of three decorated cross-slabs (see also GA021-026036- and GA021-026037-) associated with Grave 3. It is a limestone slab (H 0.89m; Wth 0.32m; T 0.09m), one of only two found on the island, the other being the cover stone (GA021-026037-) of this grave. It formed the footstone and was the only footstone that was just decorated on its W face. Most of the stone was concealed and it was broken in two pieces. The cross-head was carved in low relief and the lower armpits were notched. A border ran around the head and centrally located was a double roundel which enclosed a cross. On the shaft there was a framed incised figure that was probably a secondary feature. The figure stood in an orans position and each hand held a rectangular object, possibly a book. The E face of the slab was very roughly dressed and no decoration was evident. This cross-slab has been repaired and is now in the care of the OPW (Athenry depot, Co. Galway, see GA084-151014-). A replica has been placed on site. (White Marshall and Rourke 2000, 149-50, no. 16)

Compiled by: Olive Alcock

Date of upload: 19 November 2015

References

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

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.