Cross-slab in Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00096 Dimensions: H 0.54, W 0.47, T 0.04 An outline cross with hollow angles in a two line rectilinear frame. The frame cuts across the line of the cross rather than running into it as is the norm. Inscription: 'BADL…' above the frame, and now barely legible, was originally in two lines. Evidence of discovery: Maclister c. M.S. 1898-1905 Condition: Complete but badly worn. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81-154, 424, 719 Lionard, Early Irish Grave-slabs, PRIA 60(1959-60), p 113, Fig 10, no. 16. 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 early medieval period, possibly 8th to 10th century AD, based on the style of the cross and the context of Clonmacnoise as an important monastic site. The hollow-angled cross may have had a Christian funerary or commemorative function, common in early Irish monastic cemeteries.