Cross-slab in Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00159 Dimensions: H 0.88, W 0.65, T 0.095 A double outline ring cross with square centre. The single ring continues to form the outer line of the cross. All the terminals are squared except the base which tapers to an oval-shaped point. Inscription: 'O]RD[O FE]RGAL' DONNGAL vide Macalsiter, FERGAL vide petrie. Along top and right side. Evidence of discovery: Petrie 1822 Condition: Complete but very worn and the inscription gone. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81-1409 Stokes, M. (1878) Christian Inscriptions in the Irish language, Vol 1, p XLIX, no. 123 (possible???) Lionard, Early Irish Grave-slabs, PRIA 60(1959-60), p 122, Fig 16, no. 8 (Possible???). 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 8th to 10th century AD, consistent with early Christian insular art traditions in Ireland. The cross design may have had both religious significance and a funerary function, common in monastic sites such as Clonmacnoise.