Cross-slab in Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00339 Dimensions: H 0.72, W 0.53, T 0.043 Outline expansional cross with median line. The central expansion and looped semicircular terminals all have a fret pattern except for the stem terminal which is blank. The sculptor did not flatten the surface and the bad flaking on the stem is original. Inscription: Very patchy inscription 'OR DO VALLAIG'. Evidence of discovery: Found by J. Graves at the Nun's Church. Condition: Complete but worn. Inscription damaged by flaking. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81-388, 390 Stokes, M. (1878) Christian Inscriptions in the Irish language, Vol 1, p XLIV, no. 112 Lionard, Early Irish Grave-slabs, PRIA 60(1959-60), p 133, Fig 24, 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 the high cross tradition in Ireland. The fret pattern may symbolize interwoven spiritual and temporal themes, common in Christian monastic art of the period.