Sheela-na-gig is the collective term used to refer to any stone carving of a naked female figure using one or both hands to expose her exaggerated genital area. These rather strange sculptures were remarkably common adornments to Medieval churches and chapels across the British Isles. While the meaning and origin of these ancient carvings is by no means definite, there are many in-depth discussions and fascinating articles on the subject (see especially Shae Clancy’s excellent essay* in the online INSIGHT magazine outlining many of the theories and beliefs surrounding the Sheela-na-gig phenomenon).
Our Sheela-na-gig is a faithful reproduction of the most famous of all the remaining depictions, the Kilpeck Sheela-na-gig. The original is to be found in St. Mary's Chapel in Kilpeck, Herefordshire, on the Welsh/English border.
Sheela measures 5 inches tall, 3.5 inches wide, and 2 inches deep. She weighs around 2 lb, and is made of highest quality concrete so she is good for indoors or out. We make her with a rustproof stainless steel hook set in the back for hanging, should you wish. As you can see from the pictures, she comes in various finishes, so if you have a preference, please specify on your order and we will try to accomodate.
Oh, and she costs $36.00 plus S&H.
* please note this is not an endorsement of this product by the author.