Cross-slab in Innisfallen

In the nave of the abbey church (KE066-072001-), inside the entrance in the S wall. A recumbent limestone slab (L 1.67m), chamfered and tapering from top to bottom (Wth at top 0.66m; Wth at base 0.56m). A ringed-cross (L to base of shaft 1.4m; L horizontal arm 0.63m) in relief with extended arms and a stepped plinth at the base. The cross-shaft widens gradually from the top, just under the ring (Wth 0.15m), to the bottom (Wth 0.25m), at the top of the plinth. The plinth forms two steps (Wth 0.25m at base of shaft; 0.50m at base of slab). It is decorated with a central boss and volutes in the spandrels between the cross-arms and the ring. It is similar in type to the cross-slabs at Dalkey Island, Saggart, Lismore and Gallen. The volute design is comparable to the high crosses at Drumcliffe, Kells and Monasterboice. Possibly late 11th/early 12th-century in date, although ringed-crosses can also be found on cross-slabs dating to the 16th century (pers. comm. Denise Maher). (Weaver 1995) M. Weaver 1995 'An architectural survey of Inisfallen Island, Lough Leane, Co. Kerry.' MA Thesis, Dept. of Archaeology, UCC. Compiled by: Elizabeth Byrne, Ursula Egan and Sheila Ronan, Archaeological Survey Unit, University College, Cork. Date of upload: 31 January 2011

Date likely to the early medieval period, possibly 9th to 11th century, associated with the Christian monastic settlement of Innisfallen. The ringed cross may have had liturgical or commemorative significance, reflecting early Irish Christian art and tradition.