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 (upper portion L 0.845m; Wth at top 0.51m; T 0.13m; lower portion L 0.925m; Wth at base 0.3m) the central portion of which is missing. It has a deep hollow chamfer along the sinister edge. The upper portion is damaged along the dexter edge. It is decorated in false-relief with a four-armed cross-head with trefoil terminals. Immediately below the cross-head, at the top of the cross-shaft there is a circular knop. The cross-shaft terminates with a trefoil. Stylistically this graveslab has been dated to the 14th/15th century. (Higgins 2007, cat. no. 19, 462-3, fig. 7.2:6). 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. See attached: KK027-029036-_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, significant as part of a large assemblage of ecclesiastical monuments reflecting monastic activity in the region.