Cross-slab in Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00426 Dimensions: H 0.45, W 0.36, T 0.10 Stem and terminal of an outline expansional cross with median grave and blank semicircular terminal. Inscription: Very worn inscription 'OR] DO MURETHACH' running vertically down the slab. Evidence of discovery: 1869 rubbing by Rev J. Graves. Condition: Very worn fragment with stem and terminal. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81- Stokes, M. (1878) Christian Inscriptions in the Irish language, Vol 1, p XLIX, no. 124 (Possible ????) Lionard, Early Irish Grave-slabs, PRIA 60(1959-60), p 132, Fig 23, no. 15. The Clonmacnoise inventory was compiled by the Office of Public Works. A copy of the record for this slab is available for inspection in the relevant Archaeological Survey of Ireland (SMR) file. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien. Date of upload: 23 May 2011

Date likely to the 9th to 11th century AD, consistent with early Christian inscribed cross-slabs in Ireland. The cross and inscription may mark a Christian burial, reflecting the spiritual or social status of the deceased.