Cross-slab in Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00181 Dimensions: H 0.36, W 0.207, T 0.031 An outline ring cross with hollow angles. Petrie's drawing shows two cross arms and part of a frame with fret patterning. This piece was shown as fractured by Macalister 1898-1905 and has now been lost. Inscription: 'OROIT [M] AR M[AEL] CIARAIN' - the first 'M' precedes the 'AR' and is partially effaced. Evidence of discovery: Found during gravedigging at Temple M'Dermot in 1782. Drawn by Petrie from a rubbing. Condition: Fragment with upper part of cross and inscription. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81-195, 381, 914 Stokes, M. (1878) Christian Inscriptions in the Irish language, Vol 1, p XL, no. 103 Lionard, Early Irish Grave-slabs, PRIA 60(1959-60), p 120, Fig 15, no. 9. 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

A 9th- to 10th-century Christian cross-slab, likely associated with the monastic site of Clonmacnoise; such crosses often served as grave markers or symbols of Christian devotion. The fret patterning and ring design reflect Insular artistic traditions linked to early Irish monasticism.