Rock art in Kealduff Upper

The exposed section of this outcrop, 3.4m x 1.1m, features a network of largely rectilinear areas defined by grooves. Two of these areas enclose single cupmarks, while a third features a cup-and-ring. A second cup-and-ring interrupts a meandering groove near the E end of the rock. The decorated surface slopes upwards to N. See attached drawing of rock art taken from O'Sullivan and Sheehan 1996, Fig. 63 (d) The above description is derived from A. O'Sullivan and J. Sheehan (compilers), 'The Iveragh peninsula: an archaeological survey of South Kerry'. Cork University Press (1996), no. 342. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. In mountain heath (155m OD), on a general NE-facing slope; Good views all around especially N->E->SE where overlooking the River Behy valley. Not located. According to O’Sullivan & Sheehan (1996, 101) ‘The exposed section of this outcrop, 3.4m x 1.1m, features a network of largely rectilinear areas defined by grooves. Two of these areas enclose single cupmarks, while a third features a cup-and-ring. A second cup-and-ring interrupts a meandering groove near the E end of the rock. The decorated surface slopes upwards to N,’ (ibid, 98; Fig. 63d). Compiled by: Alison McQueen and Vera Rahilly Date of upload: 5 July 2017

Likely dating to the Neolithic or Early Bronze Age, this rock art may have had ritual or symbolic significance, possibly linked to territorial markers or ceremonial practices. The presence of cup-and-ring motifs suggests connections to wider prehistoric artistic traditions across Britain and Ireland.