Sheela-na-gig

The National Monuments Service's description

Sheela-na-gig on Fantstown Castle (LI048-004----) described by Sherlock (2004, 15-16) as; 'located on the eastern face of a quoin stone on the north-eastern corner of the building and is therefore evident as one approaches the main doorway. The figure, which is carved in false relief, is positioned horizontally on the quoin with its head towards the arris and the quoin appears similar to the others nearby, suggesting the carving is an original feature of the structure. The figure has a rounded head and a long face with clear features that tapers to the chin and meets the shoulders with no apparent attempt to represent the neck. the arms, both of which are bent at the elbow, lie beside the thin torso and the hands rest on the upper thighs. It appears that the figure was carved with the breasts being represented, but the large vulva is quite apparent, even from ground level. The legs are slightly bent at the knees, the right leg more so that then left, and the feet are out-turned. The figure may either be represented as standing or as lying down with the legs splayed'.

See attached drawing of sheela-na-gig taken from Sherlock 2004

Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien

Date of upload: 23 August 2021

References

Sherlock, R. 2004 Newly Recorded Figurative Carvings on Tower Houses in County Limerick. North Munster Antiquarian Journal 44, 15-23.