Castledermot Cadaver Double Effigy in 3D
Text and Model by Seán Sourke
Overview
Cadaver Effigy Tomb (KD040-002033) Castledermot, Co. Kildare
Built by Walter de Riddlesford, the first written reference to Castledermot’s Franciscan Friary was in 1247. This double cadaver effigy, the only one of its kind in Co. Kildare, is the sole surviving grave memorial within the Franciscan Friary today. It is located in the fourteenth century north transept, which once held a very large and impressive north window. Unfortunately, this window’s tracery is now lost, however, the three windows of the side chapels have retained their impressive tracery. Under the window of the central chapel, rests this double effigy monument.
The Urban Archaeology Survey of 1986 recorded that slab commemorates a James Tallon and Joan Skelton. The inscription was recorded as follows: on cross shaft, ‘EH’ and ‘JAMES TALLON’; along the side, ‘IOANE SKELTON WHO DIED 2 …’ ‘…05’. 1504 is the interpretation of the date in the Urban Archaeology Survey.
NOTE: This model requires good bandwidth and a reasonably powerful computer to view successfully, as the download size is 117 MB.