Cross Fragment, Rathmore COI (KD020-009008-)

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This carved fragment of a likely wayside cross was first noted in 1902 by Hans Hendrick-Aylmer in the graveyard (KD020-009006-) of St Colmcille’s Church of Ireland, Rathmore, Co. Kildare (JCKAS Vol. 3, No. 6). It was recorded as missing by the Urban Archaeology Survey (UAS) of 1986, but was rediscovered by Brian Mc Cabe during a graveyard survey c.2000 and is now on display within the Church at Rathmore. The late archaeologist, Heather King, suggested a date in the early 15th or even into the 14th century.

The top of the cross is octagonal, which would indicate that the shaft was also. Extending out from this is carved the form of a roof structure. Under this, as if sheltered by it, is depicted a Crucifixion scene on one face and the Madonna and Child on the other - both very damaged. The arms of the cross are truncated but were unlikely to have been much longer than the furthest extent of what remains.

An octagonal limestone shaft (KD020-009010-) noted in the UAS, but now missing, may belong to this cross.