Sheela-na-gig in Rath

This carving is on a highly decorated window sill, now placed upside down over a window recess in the S wall of the nave of Rath church (CL025-084001-). The sill is decorated with foliage emanating from the mouth of an animal at the centre. The sheela-na-gig is in the same plastic style, dated to c. 1200 (Harbison 2000, 27), and is in a separate panel beside the interlace. The figure is small (H c. 0.2m), and the waist area is damaged, but the breasts are visible. The hands are entwined with stylized animals, and the legs are flexed. (Guest 1936, 112, No. 20; Andersen 1977, 151, No. 103). Compiled by: Michael Moore Date of upload: 6 June, 2012

This Sheela-na-gig carving likely dates to the medieval period, associated with ecclesiastical or monastic sites in Ireland. The figure, often linked to themes of fertility, childbirth, or spiritual protection, may have had symbolic or didactic significance within the church setting.