Cross-slab

The National Monuments Service's description

The slab measures 1m in length and 0.7m in width. The cross engraved into the slab is a three line cross with a square centre. At the end of each stem of the cross there is a rectangle. The border originally surrounded the cross but is now missing in parts. There are remains of an inscription on the top right hand side of the cross that reads 'or do ogain' (Lionard 1961, 113). This slab is located approx. 1m to the Southwest of the High cross (OF008-045005-). Described by Lionard as 'The centre and terminals have rectangular sinkings on a slab from Tihilly (Co. Offaly) (Fig. 10:17)' (Lionard 1961, 113). One of a group of three early Christian cross-slabs (OF008-045007/008-) at Tihilly (Crawford 1913, 263). Described by Crawford as a 'rough slab 4ft. (1.21m) by 2 ft. 5 in. (0.73m) bearing a three-line cross with a plain square centre and rectangular extremities. A rectangular frame or panel surrrounds the cross, and a defaced inscription occupies the sinister side' (Crawford 1913, 263). Slab (a) in Crawfords catalogue of cross-slabs from Tihilly.

The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.

Date of upload: 23 May 2011