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 tapering slab (surviving L 1.66m; Wth at base 0.57m; T 0.165-0.195m), the upper portion of which is missing. It is decorated with an incised cross-shaft with stepped base. There is a partial worn inscription on the dexter side of the slab which reads: FIL HUGONIS CL[ER]CI, which translates as ‘…son of Hugh the clerk’. Manning (1991, 850) suggests the slab dates to c. 1330 based on historical inference, though he notes that both Hugh the clerk’s sons, Stephen and William, where still alive in the 1340s. The slab was found at the eastern end of the chancel of the Priory church when extending a handball alley in the late 19th century. Higgins (ibid., 460) suggests that an upper portion of a slab (KK027-0290029-), which is decorated with an incised open lozenge-shaped cross-head with concave sides and fleur-de-lis terminals, may be the missing top of this graveslab. Stylistically the graveslab dates to the 13th/14th century. (Higgins 2007, cat. no. 10, 460, fig. 7.1:8). 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. Manning, C. 1991 Hugh the clerk. Old Kilkenny Review 3 (3), 848-52. See attached: KK027-029027-_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–14th century; associated with Kells Priory, an Augustinian canon site. Its significance lies in its contribution to understanding burial practices and monastic life in medieval Ireland.