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Cross-slab in Clonmacnoise

Cross-slab

What is recorded here

Double outline ring cross with hollow angles on a worn slab in Clonmacnoise, the outer lines also forming part of a three-line frame. A lozenge sits at the centre while four small triangles point inward, making the cross emerge from the circle rather than simply being cut into it. Above the frame the name ARTTRI remains, and the bottom left corner is broken away. Petrie saw it in 1822, but its shape still works like a small trap for the eye, drawing attention back to the centre where the dead person’s name hovers.
Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00218 Dimensions: H 0.775, W 0.48, T 0.055 Double outline ring cross with hollow angles, the outer two lines forming the inner two of a three line frame. The arm ends are intended as are the corners of the inner part of the frame. The centre is lozenge shaped. Four small triangles point towards the centre creating the impressioin of an outline cross at the inner line of the circle. Inscription: Above the frame is inscribed 'ARTTRI'. Evidence of discovery: Petrie 1822 Condition: Very worn. Bottom left corner broken off. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81-82, 433, 789 Stokes, M. (1878) Christian Inscriptions in the Irish language, Vol 1, p XXVI, no. 63 Lionard, Early Irish Grave-slabs, PRIA 60(1959-60), p 124, Fig 19, no. 4. 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 10th century AD, consistent with high crosses of the early medieval Christian period in Ireland. The cross design suggests a liturgical or commemorative function, possibly marking a grave or religious site.

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What survives
Recorded monument

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