Sheela-na-gig in Carn (rathconrath By.)

This monument is said to have come from Carne Castle (WM024-123----) and was in the possession of Henry Upton, Esq. of Coolatore House (see WM031-007003-) (Guest 1936, 119; McMahon and Roberts 2001, 120). The sheela-na-gig is now located in the National Museum of Ireland (Cherry 1992, 6). Described by Freitag as a figure ‘carved on irregular, heavy slab; triangular head with ovoid eyes and slit-mouth. No neck, heavy shoulders and round breasts. Arms in front of body with both hands reaching into vulva, hanging between widely splayed thighs. Heels joined together and toes pointing down and outwards’ (Freitag 2004, 126). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload/revision: 05 June 2012