Sheela-na-gig in Clomantagh Lower

Horizontal Sheela-na-gig located on the S face of a quoin on the SW corner of Clomantagh Castle (KK013-002001-), just below fourth-floor level. Described by Freitag as a, ‘large figure set within recessed frame. Head rests on long, thin neck; flat, droopy breasts, and wavy lines across upper torso indicating ribs. Left arm in front of body with hand touching square cavity indicating vulva; right arm bent at elbow with lower arm raised up towards side of head. Deep groove extending from raised arm to head may indicate hand or band. A somewhat thicker band is depicted on left side of head and disappearing behind arm (similar to Freshford). Legs widely splayed; knees bent at right angle with feet turning outwards. An elongated object is placed on pudenda’ (Freitag 2004, 128-9). See attached photographs: KK013-002003-_01 Upper storeys of S face of tower house with arrow showing Sheela-na-gig KK013-002003-_02 Arrow showing Sheela-na-gig Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 6 June 2012

A medieval Sheela-na-gig carving, likely dating to the 12th to 14th centuries, associated with themes of fertility, childbirth, or apotropaic symbolism; often found in or near ecclesiastical or defensive structures.