Sites and Monuments Record · Ireland
Sheela-na-gig
Ardcath, County Meath, Ireland
The record
- Townland
- Ardcath
- County
- Meath
- Country
- Ireland
- SMR number
- ME033-040----
This record in the National Monuments Service's Historic Environment Viewer ↗
The National Monuments Service's description
Sheela-na-gig discovered in 1978 during removal of a masonry gate pier at entrance to farm where it had been intentionally concealed from view (McMahon and Roberts 2001, 112). Now in private possession and built into wall of farm. Original location of sheela-na-gig is unknown. Described by Freitag as a figure, ‘carved in false relief on limestone block, the figure fills frame formed by cut edge of stone. Big head with prominent round eyes, no neck, arms akimbo with both hands on thighs close to pudenda which is indicated as a roundish indentation. Legs slightly bent and both feet face in same direction’ (Freitag 2004, 122).
Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien
Date of upload: 06 June 2012
References
McMahon, J. and Roberts, J. 2001 The sheela-na-gigs of Ireland and Britain: the divine hag of the Christian celts - an illustrated guide. Cork. Mercier Press.
Freitag, B. 2004 Sheela-na-gigs: unravelling an enigma. London. Routledge.