Sheela-na-gig in Ballynaclogh

Situated on the on the SW angle of Ballynaclogh church (TN027-003002-), on the external S face of a quoin c. 3m above ground level. The figure, carved in relief, (c. 0.5m high) has a flat-topped head, jug-shaped ears, pointed chin, widely spaced almond eyes and no clear mouth. One arm is pulling the face, probably the ear, while the other arm is reaching under a leg and pulling the vulva. The legs are apart and the feet are quite badly spalled. (Manning 1988, 71-3) The above description is derived from 'The Archaeological Inventory of County Tipperary. Vol. 1 - North Tipperary' compiled by Jean Farrelly and Caimin O'Brien (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2002). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 22 September 2008

A Sheela-na-gig carving, likely dating to the medieval period, often associated with fertility symbolism or ritual function, though its precise meaning remains uncertain.