St. Mary's Parish - Sheela-na-gig - KK019-026170

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Sheela was unearthed during excavation work in Coolaghmore graveyard, which features a medieval church and is said to be where she was laid to rest in the 19th century after being discovered in a local holy well. Today, she resides in the Rothe House Collection. Her head takes on an egg-like shape with distinctive eyes and a rectangular nose that comes to a blunt point. A short mouth gives her a unique appearance. Her head appears to be tilted, based on the position of her eyes. Sheela is missing ears but possesses a long neck and well-defined clavicle. Initially, it was noted that she lacked breasts; however, faint features can now be observed on her chest, which is decorated with a detailed ribcage. The feature between her ribs may be the xiphoid process, the smallest part of the sternum. Both hands are adorned with fingers, with the right hand resting above her vulva, marked by a line above a deep hole. Her left hand lies by her side. Her left leg is straight, with her foot turned inwards, while her right leg is bent at the knee and her foot points downwards.