sheelanagigs

A sheela-na-gig is a type of figurative carving or stone sculpture found on buildings, most often churches, in Ireland and Britain. These carvings typically depict a naked woman with exaggerated sexual features, particularly a prominent vulva. They are usually small, often no larger than a human face, and are typically found in a solitary position, often high up on a wall.

The exact origin and purpose of sheela-na-gigs are debated among scholars. Theories range from them being apotropaic symbols, intended to ward off evil, to representations of fertility goddesses or symbols of female power and sexuality. Some researchers suggest a connection to pre-Christian pagan traditions, while others believe they are a later development within Christian contexts, perhaps serving as a moralistic warning against lust or as a symbol of divine feminine power.

The term "sheela-na-gig" is thought to derive from the Irish Gaelic "síleann ón ngig," meaning something akin to "Sheila of the [sexual organ]." While they are most commonly associated with Ireland, examples have also been found in England, Scotland, and France. The carvings vary greatly in style and execution, suggesting a widespread but not uniform tradition. The figures are often depicted with a grimacing or smiling expression, and sometimes with raised hands. Their presence on ecclesiastical buildings has led to much speculation about their integration into medieval Christian society. Many sheela-na-gigs have been lost or damaged over time, with surviving examples preserved in various churches and museums.