Architectural fragment in Clonenagh

In an elevated area within graveyard. A block of sandstone decorated with Romanesque art was uncovered in 1988 during graveyard (LA017-003007-) clean-up scheme. This sandstone slab (H 0.5m; Wth 0.26m; T 0.22m) is decorated with an incised double chevron running along the edge of the sandstone block, the space between the two opposed chevrons contains a floral motif. Probably the jambstone of a Romanesque doorway or archway very similar to the carvings found on the chancel arch of the Nuns chapel in Clonmacnoise. This block has been set into concrete against the inner face of the W wall of the graveyard to the N of the gateway into the graveyard. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 December 2007