What is recorded here

Sheela-na-gig in Boherash stands as a carved stone guard inside Glanworth Castle, her legs splayed and hands gripping her body to face whoever entered the gate tower. The sculpture likely watched the doorway, using shame and visibility to keep danger away rather than inviting worship. Her distinct form still belongs to the castle chamber where she was made, not a distant museum case.

Discovered during archaeological excavation (1982-84) at Glanworth Castle (14328) 'in one of the two vaulted ground floor chambers in the north side of the original rectangular gate tower' (Manning 1987, 278). Figure carved on one entire face of roughly trapezoidal stone (H 0.52m; Wth at base 0.35m; Wth at top 0.21m; D 0.44m). Figure depicted in a position of display with legs flexed and widely splayed and hands grasping vulva, left arm lying across torso while right arm passes beneath thigh; uncommon feature is anus which is shown distinctly at base of stone (ibid., 280). Figure has large head, hunched shoulders, breasts and ribs are clearly indicated. Probably originally prominently displayed on wall of castle, where it served 'an apotropaic function' (ibid., 281). Now in National Monuments and Historic Properties Service depot, Mallow (CO033-143----). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of revision: 15 December 2009

A Sheela-na-gig carving, likely dating to the 12th to 14th century, possibly associated with medieval Christian or earlier pagan symbolism; often interpreted as linked to fertility, childbirth, or spiritual protection.

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