Graveslab in Rathduff (madden)

One of a large number of graveslabs (KK027-029005-; KK027-029015-, KK027-029016-, KK027-029021- to KK027-029051-) found at Kells Priory for Augustinian canons (KK027-029004-) which have been described and catalogued by Higgins (2007, 453-67). A tapering slab (L 1.61m; Wth at top 0.61m; Wth at base 0.53m; T 0.16m), which is split in two pieces. It is decorated with an incised cross, consisting of a four-armed open lozenge-shaped cross-head with concave sides and fleur-de-lis terminals. The cross-shaft terminates in a stepped base. There is an inscription in Lombardic script along the edge of the dexter surface which reads: HIC JACET STEPH[AN]US FILI HUGONIS CLERICI. This translates as: Here lies Stephen, son of Hugh. Manning (1991, 850) suggests the slab dates to c. 1330 based on historical inference, though he notes that both Hugh the clerk’s son Stephen was still alive in the 1340s. The slab was found at the eastern end of the chancel of the Priory church when extending a handball alley in the late 19th century. Stylistically the graveslab dates to the 13th/14th century. (Higgins 2007, cat. no. 11, 460, fig. 7.1:11). Ref.: Higgins, J. 2007 The medieval funerary monuments. In M. Clyne, (ed.), Kells Priory, Co. Kilkenny: archaeological excavations by T. Fanning & M. Clyne, 453-67. Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Dublin. Manning, C. 1991 Hugh the clerk. Old Kilkenny Review 3 (3), 848-52. See attached: KK027-029028-_01 Illustration in Higgins, J. 2007 The medieval funerary monuments. In M. Clyne, (ed.), Kells Priory, Co. Kilkenny: archaeological excavations by T. Fanning & M. Clyne, 453-67. Compiled by: Jean Farrelly Date of upload: 31 May 2023

Medieval Christian graveslab; associated with the Augustinian priory at Kells, dating to the 12th–14th century. Its significance lies in its connection to the religious and monastic history of the region.