Font (present location)

The National Monuments Service's description

Now located in St John's church, moved from grounds of Emo Park demesne (LA009-006-) c. 1935. It may originally have been in Coolbanagher church (LA008-014001-). The font, which has an octagonal basin (max. int. diam. 0.57m, max. D 0.25m, T 0.1m) with a central drain-hole, is set on a modern base. Its eight panels are elaborately decorated with carvings in relief of angels or foliage designs and divided from each other by a twisted vine. Punch-dressing indicates a late medieval date (JKAS 1904, Vol. IV, 196-7; Roe 1947, 82-3). The panels contain angels carved in relief with a Bishops Head with open mouth from which a vine sprouts outwards, stylised vine leafs and bunches of grapes are found carved on several panels. This vine leaf motif coupled with the Bishop symbolises the church and the followers of the church which is linked to the scrament of Baptism where the person becomes a member of the church (symbol of the Bishop) and a follower of Christ (Vine leaf).

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Date of upload: 17 December 2007