Sheela-na-gig carving Balgeeth, Ardcath

Sheela-na-gig carvings are likely based on ancient Celtic fertility symbols and portray exaggerated female elements. There are a number in Ireland, and the image above is one at Fetard in Co. Tipperary. However, the example in Balgeeth is on the wall of a farm yard in the townland of Balgeeth (Baile na Gaoithe) which is close to the village of Ardcath, County Meath, Ireland (Irish: Ard Cath, Contae na Mí, Éire). Although these carved images are not exclusive to Ireland, the greatest number of surviving sheela na gig carvings can be found in Ireland. You can find out more about the Ardcath Sheela-na-gig carvings with information and photos at Knowth.com Sheela-na-Gig.

Link: Knowth.com.

Image: Sheela-na-gig on town wall in Fethard, Co. Tipperary, Ireland author Michael Sider courtesy Wikimedia Commons