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). The central portion of a tapering slab (upper portion L 0.845m; Wth at top 0.51m; T 0.13m; lower portion L 0.925m; Wth at base 0.3m) which has been broken in two slightly diagonally across its width at roughly the centre of the surviving slab. It is decorated in low false-relief with a three-armed cross-head with fleur-de-lis terminals. The upper terminal and tip of the sinister terminal are missing. A curling foliate motif springs from either side of the cross-shaft below the cross-head. A hollow (Wth 0.23m; D 0.06m) in the back of the stone indicates its reuse as a slop-stone. Stylistically this graveslab has been dated to the 13th/14th century. (Higgins 2007, cat. no. 21, 461, fig. 7.2:8). 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. See attached: KK027-029038-_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. Part of a significant assemblage associated with Kells Augustinian Priory, reflecting burial practices of the monastic community.