Cork in 50 Artworks, No 9: Sheela-na-gig carvings at Cork Public Museum 

The stone carvings of naked women with exposed genitals still stir debate, and the Fitzgerald's Park facility holds two fine examples found in Co Cork 

Sheela Na Gig found at Tracton. Picture: Cork Public Museum

Hidden from view for many years, sheela-na-gigs have emerged from the realms of archaeology and academia in recent years, becoming figures of fascination in the broader public imagination.

 These medieval stone carvings of naked women with exposed genitals are found in churches and tower-houses across the country. There are more than 110 examples in Ireland, with two from Cork displayed in Cork Public Museum in Fitzgerald’s Park.