Graveslab

The National Monuments Service's description

Set flat in the ground in the NE corner of the chancel of Moyne Franciscan friary church (MA022-024001-). This graveslab consists of a rectangular stone slab (L 1.50m; Wth 0.90m. Fig. 1) oriented E−W. At one end, it features a carving of a crest and escutcheon, with a coat of arms now too weathered to be identified, above which is a helmet. These are framed by swirls of foliage in high relief, with two tassels hanging on either side. No inscription or date can be identified, but the style is typical of the 17th century. Similar 17th century armorial stones are preserved in Sligo Dominican friary, for example (SL014-065008-).
Although he does not give supporting evidence, O’Hara (1898, 261) suggested that this graveslab may have been dedicated to Sir George Boyle, cousin of Richard Boyle, 1st Earl of Cork. Richard Boyle had acquired the abbey lands from his brother in law and was still in possession of Moyne in 1641. Sir George was married to Una, daughter of Oliver Bourke of Iniscoe, and died in 1626.

Attached images:
MA022-024004-_01 Graveslab set in floor of chancel
MA022-024004-_02 Detail of carving

Compiled by: Anne-Julie Lafaye

Date of upload: 15 June 2020

References

O’Hara, J. 1898 Rosserk and Moyne, Co. Mayo. Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland 28, 258-263.