Asheela na gig is a figurative stone carving of a naked woman displaying an exaggerated
vulva. These carvings, from the Middle Ages are found throughout most of Europe on
cathedrals castles and other buildings, however the greatest concentration is in Ireland.
Scholars debate their purpose but for me they represent female empowerment. Most
ancient cultures have honoured and revered the “divine feminine” through artwork and
carvings. Female fertility figurines are among the oldest art objects. These works usually
exaggerate the female form with their curvaceous bodies representing fertility and the
power of life giving and nurturing, motherhood, sexuality, and abundance. I decided to
abstract the design a little, using a Celtic knot to form the female body and set it with a
garnet.
This pendant measures 38mm long and 27mm wide.