Tomb

A large collection of cross slabs, grave slabs, decorated stones and three effigies (See KD022-029023- and KD022-029027- to KD022-029057-), dating from the 10th to the 17th centuries have been placed in St. Brigid’s Cathedral (KD022-029005-). KD022-029030-: In the chancel. According to Bradley et al. (1986 vol. 3, 226. Fig. 103), an effigy carved in relief on a gently tapering, coffin-shaped limestone slab (L 1.9m; Wth 0.5m-0.64m; T 0.33m). One of the slab’s long sides and parts of both ends are decorated with stiff leaf foliage. The figure of a bishop (traditionally identified as John of Taunton, Bishop of Kildare who died in 1258) has both gloved hands resting flat on the chest and there is a ring on the second finger of the right hand. He wears an amice, a full soft chasuble, a dalmatic, a stole with fringed ends and an alb. The head rests on a rectangular cushion and is flanked on either side by an angel holding a censer. The feet appear to lie against an animal, or possibly a bird missing its head and tail. He wears a maniple over the left wrist, a mitre over curling hair and his crozier rests on the right side of the body. (Hunt 1974, no. 87, pls. 69-70) Compiled by: Gearóid Conroy Date of upload: 30 January 2012

Medieval effigial tomb, 10th to 17th century. Significant as part of a collection of decorated stones and cross slabs associated with St. Brigid’s Cathedral, reflecting Christian funerary practices and artistic traditions in Kildare.