This book represents a move towards a detailed, accurate and archaeologically sensitive record of the sheela-na-gigs in Britain and Ireland, and establishes their study firmly within the orbit of mainstream research. Throughout, context is a central concern.
"Sheela-na-gigs are carvings of naked females posed in a manner which displays and emphasises the genitalia. In recent decades, interest in the figures has grown and they have often been a source of controversy. Once thought of in negative terms only, they have more recently come to be regarded in a positive light. There is little tradition or folklore recorded in Ireland which provides any useful insight into their origin or function. Here Eamonn P. Kelly of the National Museum of Ireland examines the examples throughout the countryside and others held for display, and makes comparisons with similar figures occuring in Britain and the rest of Europe." --
Jack Roberts' research calls 'bollocks' on the staid academic view of Sheela-na-gigs and brings readers back to the time when they were created and revered. His is an artistic and highly-researched history of Ireland's mysterious symbol of female divinity, the Sheela-na-gig.
Sexually explicit sculptures may be found on a number of medieval churches in France and Spain. This fascinating study examines the origins and purposes of these sculptures, viewing them not as magical fertility symbols, nor even as idols of ancient pre-Christian religions, but as serious works that dealt with the sexual customs and salvation of medieval folk, and thus gave support to the Church's moral teachings.
A feast of extraordinary theories and personalities centred around the mysterious standing stones of antiquity. John Michell tells the incredible story of the amazing reactions, ancient and modern, to these prehistoric relics, whether astronomical, legendary, mystical or visionary.
"Different beliefs, practices and rituals behind the notion of their magical powers and virtues are revealed. The situations in which people resorted to them are also examined: selecting chieftains, establishing the truth, curing sickness, and promoting fertility. In conclusion, the role of sacred stones in the religious and spiritual life of modern Ireland is described. This is a reminder of our spiritual past as some of these stones and monuments enter their fifth millennium."--Jacket.