Cross-slab in Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00376 Dimensions: H 0.834, W 0.43-0.21, T 0.10 Outline cross with median line. The three upper terminals are semicircular, the stem one, unusually, square and all are blank. The circular centre contains four quadrants two with fret, one with an interlace knot, matched diagonally. The cross was shaped to fit the slab and may have been upright. No inscription. Evidence of discovery: Macalister 1898-1905. Condition: Complete but some flaking especially in the centre. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81-172, 192 Stokes, M. (1878) Christian Inscriptions in the Irish language, Vol 1, p XXXII, no. 85. 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

Date likely to the 9th–10th century AD, consistent with high crosses of the Clonmacnoise monastic site. The unusual square terminal on the stem may symbolize a Christian cross adapted from earlier symbolic forms, reflecting the fusion of pre-Christian and Christian traditions in early Irish art.