There is controversy regarding the source of the figures. They are often positioned over doors or windows, presumably to protect these openings. Other grotesques such as gargoyles and Hunky Punks are frequently found on churches all over Europe and it is commonly said that they are there to keep evil spirits away (see apotropaic magic). Such carvings are said to ward off death and evil (Andersen Weir and Jerman). Ireland has the greatest number of known Sheela na Gig carvings: in The Sheela-na-Gigs of Ireland and Britain: The Divine Hag of the Christian Celts – An Illustrated Guide Joanne McMahon and Jack Roberts cite 101 examples in Ireland against 45 all over Britain. Another well-known example can be seen at Church of St Mary and St David, Kilpeck in Herefordshire, England. A replica is located in the County Museum in Tralee town. One of the best examples may be found in the Round Tower at Rattoo, in County Kerry, Ireland. They are found on churches, castles and other buildings, particularly in Ireland and Britain, sometimes together with male figures. Sheela na Gigs (or Sheela-na-Gigs) are figurative carvings of naked women displaying an exaggerated vulva.
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