Sheela-na-gig in Ballinowlart North

The original location of this sheela-na-gig is unknown, it has since been moved to the public library in Edenderry (OF012-015----). This sheela-na-gig was discovered underneath Kilcumber bridge in the Figile River about 20 years ago (King 1993, 13; Freitag 2004, 129). Now housed in the Public Library in Edenderry (on loan from National Museum of Ireland). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Compiled and revised by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload/revision: 19 January 2015

This Sheela-na-gig is likely medieval in origin, though influenced by earlier prehistoric traditions, and is associated with fertility symbolism and possibly ritual or folk practices. Such figures were often linked to themes of life, death, and rebirth in Irish tradition.