Boa Island - Janus figure

sketchfab

In Boa Island's Caldragh Cemetery, Lower Lough Erne stands a distinct pair of stone carvings that command attention. The larger figure, known as the Boa Island bilateral figure, boasts two faces, much like the Roman deity Janus, but it is not a representation of this mythical being. Instead, it is believed to embody a Celtic god or goddess. Each side of the figure features a face and torso, while the area where the two carved figures meet showcases an intricate interlace design that may symbolize hair. The faces are remarkably large, shaped like pointed ovals, with big eyes, straight noses, and half-open mouths featuring protruding tongues above pointed chins. The head rests directly on the torso without a neck, giving it a unique appearance. The torso itself is a square block with hunched shoulders, crossed arms, and a prominent belt. Boa Island's Caldragh Cemetery holds secrets of these enigmatic stone carvings, waiting to be unraveled by curious minds.