rn of regular chevrons. In the Irish examples the
spiral replaces the concentric circles for the eyes, and the pattern
below is further enriched by lozenges, and finally we arrive at a form
in which the spiral has an eyebrow above and a single lozenge below,
and this form M. Dechelette compares to the engravings on the slabs at
New Grange. The shield-like figure on the roofing stone of the right
recess at New Grange is compared by M. Dechelette to the engravings on
the dolmen of Pierres-Plates at Locmariaquer, which also appear to be
a stylized form of the idol.

M. Dechelette compares the very remarkable boundary-stone at Dowth,
with the engraving of suns on it, to the vases from Millares, province
d'Almerie, which are ornamented with raised circles, these in their
turn being derived from a degenerate form of the idol.

M. Dechelette applies the same explanation to the scribings at
Gavir'inis, the spiral ornamentation of which is to be regarded as
derived from Ireland.

This very brilliant and original interpretation of the scribings at
New Grange seems to fit the case exceedingly well, and M. Dechelette's
theory may be regarded as a very probable one for the origin of the
markings, but it must be remembered that there is some difficulty
caused by the fact that the similarity in plan between New Grange
and the tholos tombs, as has been pointed out, is too great to be
neglected. Now if New Grange is derived from this source, it cannot
well be placed earlier than 1000 B.C. The idol, on the other hand, is
neolithic in date, and must have survived a considerable time to have
influenced the Irish carvings. It must also be borne in mind that no
other forms of this idol have been met with in Ireland.

* * * * *

INDEX

A

Abercromby, Hon. John, 2, 96.

Amber found in Ireland, 2, 65, 68.

Annadale, Co. Leitrim, wooden shield found at, 75.

Annaghkeen, Co. Galway, burial at, 1, 57.

Anvil and hammers, 27, 28.

Armoy, Co. Antrim, find made at, 81.

Athenry, Co. Galway, bronze objects found at, 87.

B

Bann, River, Co. Antrim, 21.

Beakers found in Ireland, 95.

Belfast, find of gold ring-money and bronze celt at, 87.

Belmore Mountain, Co. Fermanagh, interment at, 1.

Belturbet, bronze spear-heads found at, 33, 82.

Birr, King's Co., celts found at, 7.

Broighter find, 80.

Bronze Age in Ireland, chronology of, 3-5;
1st period of, 23-27