Cist in Labbamolaga East

The location of two cist burials in the townland of Labbamolaga East has been recently identified by local historian, Nioclàs Ó Duinnín. Discovered in 1948 during quarrying in sand pit. Investigated by O'Kelly (1950, 15-20) who found polygonal cist (max. int. dims.: 2ft 6in x 2ft; H 2ft 8in); five sides defined by small/medium slabs, sixth side probably drystone walling. Base formed by single polygonal slab; capstone set 1ft 9in below field level. Cist contained cremated bones of adult male, adult female and 4-6 year-old child; burnt bone pin and 'pendant' (ibid., 17) mixed in with bones. In corner stood well-made Food Vessel Vase (H 4 3/4 in.; max. diam. 5in): bi-conical with internally decorated everted rim. On body of Vase, decorative scheme is zonal and metopic; horizontal bands at base, shoulder and just below rim separating incised design are reminiscent of basket work (ibid.). Cut into top of pit was later pit-burial (CO010-004002-). Doody 1986, Cork No. 38; Waddell 1990, 61-2). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Compiled by: Denis Power Revised by: Caimin O'Brien based on details provided by James O'Brien and Nioclàs Ó Duinnín Date of revised upload: 22 February 2022

Cist burial; likely Early Christian or Bronze Age. Its significance lies in its contribution to understanding burial practices in the region, as documented by early archaeological investigations.