Graveslab in Rathduff (madden)

One of a large number of graveslabs (KK027-029005-; KK027-029015-, KK027-029016-, KK027-029021- to KK027-029051-) found at Kells Priory for Augustinian canons (KK027-029004-) which have been described and catalogued by Higgins (2007, 453-67). A fragment of a tapering graveslab (L 0.38m; Wth 0.43-0.5; T 0.09m) which is decorated in false-relief. Only portion of a tapering cross-shaft and an ovoid knop are visible on this small fragment. It was reused as a grave liner in the nave of the priory church in the late medieval/post-medieval period. Stylistically this possibly dates to the 14th/15th century. (Higgins 2007, cat. no. 23, 466, fig. 7.2:10). Ref.: Higgins, J. 2007 The medieval funerary monuments. In M. Clyne, (ed.), Kells Priory, Co. Kilkenny: archaeological excavations by T. Fanning & M. Clyne, 453-67. Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Dublin. See attached: KK027-029040-_01 Illustration in Higgins, J. 2007 The medieval funerary monuments. In M. Clyne, (ed.), Kells Priory, Co. Kilkenny: archaeological excavations by T. Fanning & M. Clyne, 453-67. Compiled by: Jean Farrelly Date of upload: 31 May 2023

Medieval Christian graveslab, 12th to 16th century; associated with Kells Priory, an Augustinian foundation, indicating the site's role in monastic and ecclesiastical activity in medieval Ireland.