Tomb — chest tomb in Inishlounaght

Towards the E end of the graveyard of the C of I church, which is on or near the site of the former Cistercian abbey (TS083-017----). A portion of a 16th-century limestone chest-tomb slab (H 0.48m above ground; Wth 0.63m; T 0.1m) which has been embedded in the ground and reused as a grave-marker. The panel consists of at least three figures, each within an individual ogee-headed niche, terminating at the N end. The S end is broken and only a small portion of the N of the niche survives. The sinister arch is surmounted by a fleur-de-lis finial with foliate spandrels, the middle arch is surmounted by a vine-leaf finial with foliate spandrels and only the foliate decoration of the S spandrel of the S arch survives. The figure in this dexter niche was carrying a cross-staff, only the cross head of which survives. This may be St Thaddeus who is frequently represented carrying a cross-staff. The central figure, that of St Peter, carries a large key in his right hand and a book in his left. The sinister figure is probably St Thomas, as he appears to be holding a spear in his right hand and a book in his left. Compiled by: Jean Farrelly Date of upload: 20 September 2017