Exhibitionist figure

The National Monuments Service's description

Two carved sandstone figures (TN025-038002-/004-), originating from the old church (TN025-038001-) of Burgesbeg. The figure (TN025-038002-), on loan to the National Museum, was found in 1932 by a Mr Wallace inside the church at the base of the wall of the only remaining gable. The second figure from Burgesbeg appears to be the figure (OF005-004004-) now located in the store room at Clonmacnoise. Guest recorded that, 'Mr Wallace has informed me of the finding of two Sheela-na-gigs (TN025-038002-/004-) found lying outside the south wall of Burgesbeg churchyard (TN025-038003-) (Guest 1939, 48). This figure is currently kept in a store room adjoining the cathedral (OF005-004001-) at Clonmacnoise. Described by McMahon and Roberst as a figure with 'bent legs, bulbous eyes and clearly defined ribs. According to Weir there is 'a small protuberance, like an uvula [which is described as a 'hesitant penis'] immediately below what is a small deep hole which most likely represents the anus' (McMahon and Roberts 2001, 119). Recorded by Cherry as an exhibitionist figure that was mistakenly identified as a sheela-na-gig (Cherry 1992, 10). Cross-referenced with OF005-004004-.

Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien

Date of upload: 05 June 2012

References

Guest, E.M. 1939 A sheela-na-gig at Clonmacnoise. Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries of Ireland 69, 48.

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.