Sheela-na-gig

Sheela-na-gig

Sheela-na-Gig figures were pagan or early Christian female deities.

These figures are found in many places in the British Isles, with clusters known from Ireland and Derbyshire, England. There are only two known Sheela-na-Gigs in Wales (discovered at Llandrindod Wells, Radnorshire and Penmon, Anglesey). Such figures usually feature crudely-carved bald-headed crones, with the main emphasis being placed on the figure's exposed private parts. Generally speaking, most known sheelas are still in situ, which has led to considerable weathering and distortion to their features. In contrast, the Llandrindod Wells figure is a well-preserved example, having been buried underneath the threshold to the Old Parish Church for many years.

The Llandrindod Wells sheela is in carved relief, with a crucifix incised on the right hand side (possibly inserted at a later date to the rest of the carving). Although found in a medieval context, it is likely to date from the Dark Ages or earlier.

Interpretations vary as to the meaning of Sheela-na-Gig figures. Usually associated with thresholds in medieval churches, many are found over doorways (often the main entrance into the church), with the specific aim of emphasising the figure's exposed private parts. Older interpretations suggest that Sheela-na-Gigs were used to represent the hellish nature of native pagan beliefs; more modern commentaries suggest that it is more likely that their incorporation in churches indicated a continuation of goddess worship, traditionally connected with that site. This seems particularly prevalent in Ireland.