Medieval Grave Slabs, Castledermot

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Three medieval grave slabs from St James’ Churchyard, Castledermot. One is complete and consists of granite that has been carved to leave a simple raised cross with a circle at its centre - partially obscured by moss. This slab may date from the early middle ages.

Next to this are two fragmentary limestone grave slabs from the later middle ages. They are placed together as if they were two parts of one slab.

The lower slab has an inscribed motif known as a stepped Calvary, from which the shaft of a cross extends up the centre of the stone. The letter ‘H’ is inscribed to the left of the shaft, and ‘I’ to the right. The sides of the stone taper along the length and are chamfered.

The upper stone is inscribed with an eight-pointed cross of fleur-de-lys terminals. This stone also tapers towards the bottom. The sides of the stone are chamfered inwards towards the upper surface, stopping short of the latter and thereby forming a moulding. This is emphasised by an inscribed inset line running around the edge.