Information Text in Space 3

In this period there is a separation of the various elements of belief, ritual and ceremonial. Burials were of individuals in separate graves often with their own set of grave gods. There is an increasing focus on the deposition of artefacts in wet places, rivers, lakes and especially bogs and pools. These votive offerings seem to have represented both personal and communal offerings to deities or spirits as well as symbolising wealth and the control of valuable resources. Objects of wood, bone, bronze, gold and amber were placed individually or in groups or hoards into the water and special places of spiritual importance. From the middle of the period onwards there is also evidence for the deposition of human bones and especially skulls or parts of skulls at these places, also providing a link with concepts of burial and the afterlife. 

The carved wooden figure – it may be male or female – from Ralaghan, County Cavan – is one of a small number of effigies from these places of ritual deposition which are represented by the small pool. A single yew trunk is simply carved with crude facial features, limbs and feet. A standing stone is placed behind the wooden idol. In the background stand the wetland trees of willow and alder. 

The wooden figure that depicts the Bronze Age  has been carved from a yew tree that was grown locally.  The stone that supports the figure was formally one of the steps leading to the local garda station.  The common willow tree represents this period.  Known for its soft and flexible wood it was used for basket making, furniture, and traditional boat building.