Cross-slab (present location) in Baile An Fheirtéaraigh

This record (KE042-158----) has been created to mark the location of this cross-slab in its present location in Músaem Chorca Dhuibhne, Baile an Fheirtéaraigh. The former record for this cross-slab was KE054-015---- (listed in the 1990 SMR) but that record was changed to 'non-monument' because, following a trial excavation (Manning 1980, 39-44), it was established that the slab was 'clearly in a secondary context at this spot [KE054-015----], and that no early ecclesiastical site existed in the immediate vicinity' (Cuppage 1986, 261, no. 812). Cross-slab described by Cuppage (1986, 261, no. 812) as follows; 'In September 1978 an Early Christian cross-slab was uncovered during preparation of ground for the erection of a cattle shed at the E edge of a complex of farm buildings at Ardamore. Subsequently a two-week trial excavation was undertaken by Manning (1980, 39-44), and it was established that the slab was clearly in a secondary context at this spot, and that no early ecclesiastical site existed in the immediate vicinity. The nearest site with a possible early ecclesiastical origin lies 475m to NW (878) [Templebeg KE052-038001-]. The cross-slab is 1.22m long and 0.4m in maximum width, narrowing towards the base. The decoration is confined to the upper third of the face and consists of a highly-decorative Greek cross in a round panel, the cross being in relief with the background cut back some 7mm. The arms of the cross are made of double bands, the narrow grooves between which intersect at the centre. At the terminals, each of the double bands spirals outwards to meet the ends of one c-curve, which surrounds each terminal, and another which fills the angle between the arms and connects adjacent terminals. The upper left-hand angle is different from the others in having 2 c-curves filling the angle. A simple triskele is formed at each point where the curves meet, except in the upper left angle where 4 curved lines join in the same fashion. There is a small hole, 0.013m in diameter x 0.01m deep, in the top edge of the stone in line with the vertical axis of the cross. See attached photograph taken from Cuppage 1986, Plate XIII Cross referenced with original location KE000-001---- Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 7 April 2022

This cross-slab is likely from the early medieval period, possibly 8th to 11th century AD, and may have served a Christian commemorative or liturgical function. Its relocation to the museum suggests it was originally situated in a ecclesiastical or settlement context, though specific folklore or inscribed meaning is not recorded.