Wall monument

The National Monuments Service's description

Located in the church of Sligo Dominican friary (SL014-065008-), at the E end of the S wall of the chancel. It is set within the eastern-most of the chancel’s eight 13th-century lancet windows.
This impressive wall monument, carved in the Renaissance style, was commissioned in 1624 by Lady Eleanor Butler to commemorate her husband Sir Donogh O’Connor Sligo, who died in 1609. It is comprised of three sections, surmounted by a representation of the Crucifixion. The upper section bears the sculpted crest and coat of arms of the O’Connor family, flanked by two figures, one bearing a key, the other a sword, possibly representing St Peter and St Paul (Wood-Martin 1889, 70). The two figures stand on small projecting corbels. A projecting hood-moulding separates this section from the larger middle section. Winged cherubs’ heads are carved above and below the middle section, at each corner. This section is dedicated to a representation of Lady Eleanor and her husband, who face each other, kneeling in prayer on either side of a small gabled altar or reliquary. Sir Donogh, on the left, is in full 17th-century armour, with his helmet placed on the floor behind him. Lady Eleanor is wearing a collarette typical of the period, and a long gown with a cape, as well as a rosary around her neck, and on her head a tiara or diadem. Each figure is placed within a round-headed arch, resting on the altar or reliquary in the centre, and on pillars ornamented with trophies. On the pillar to the left of Sir Donogh are a drum, flag and axe, and a shield, sword and musket. On the pillar to the right of Lady Eleanor are an open book, with a spade and torch over a censer or thurible (Wood-Martin 1889, 70). These items are most likely attributes meant to symbolize the lives they lived: prowess on the battlefield for Sir Donogh, and engagement in pious activities for Lady Eleanor. The lowermost section of the monument features a winged hour-glass surrounded by elaborate carvings of stylised flowers, foliage, scrolls and grapes, flanked on either side are two skulls. Above the monument is a small wooden canopy, installed by the OPW to protect it from the elements.

Attached images:
SL014-065028-_01.JPG Butler wall monument
SL014-065028-_02.JPG Central panel

Compiled by: Anne-Julie Lafaye

Date of upload: 7 May 2020

References

Wood-Martin, W.G. 1888 The rude stone monuments of Ireland (Co. Sligo and the island of Achill). Hodges Figgis, Dublin.