Inscribed stone in Kildare

A large collection of cross slabs, grave slabs, decorated stones and three effigies (See KD022-029023- and KD022-029027- to KD022-029057-), dating from the 10th to the 17th centuries have been placed in St. Brigid’s Cathedral (KD022-029005-). KD022-029044-: Known as the ‘Pardon stone’. In the S transept. According to Bradley et al. (1986 vol. 3, 234-35 Fig. 106), a rectangular limestone panel (H 0.36m; Wth 0.78m; T 0.18m) is decorated on one long side and on one narrow side in false relief. The long side has a crucifixion and an Ecce Homo separated by a figure in plate armour who wears a pisane, carrys a spear, and has a sword suspended from the waist; the word CENNRIO is written beside the figure. On the left, Christ is nailed to a Latin cross with INRI above, and on either side flying angels pull long nails from his hands while another angel holds a chalice below to catch his blood. An inscription on a scroll reads: ‘TO THEM THAT DEVOUTLY SAY/ V PR NR & V AVE BEFOR THIS/ YMAGE AR GRANT XXV1 IERS & XXV1 DAYES OF PARDON’. The narrow side of the panel has a depiction of St. Michael weighing souls. (Roe 1976, 262) Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy Date of upload: 6 February 2012

Inscribed stone in Kildare likely dates to the medieval period, given the context of 10th to 17th century decorated stones in the area. It may have had a liturgical or commemorative function, possibly linked to early Christian practices or local saints.