Sheela-na-gig (present location) in Unknown Townland

Sheela-na-gig found at St Mary's Church, Rosenallis in October of 1991 during clean up scheme in graveyard (LA003-016005), which has since been removed and is now housed in the National Museum of Ireland. Described by Freitag as 'Heavy looking figure carved on irregular sandstone slab (dims. H 0.51m ; Wth 0.31m) and quite weathered. Facial features discernible; short hair indicated. Heavy, round shoulders; small breasts, a few ribs. Decidedly swollen abdomen, possibly indicating pregnancy. Arms slightly bent; both hands touching oval pudenda. Squatting position, legs splayed and bent, feet turned outwards' (Freitag 2004, 140). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 05 June 2012

Dated to the 12th to 14th century, this Sheela-na-gig is likely associated with medieval Christian symbolism, often interpreted as representing themes of fertility, childbirth, or the grotesque in religious art. Such figures were sometimes incorporated into church architecture, though their exact meaning remains debated.