Gobnait (Abigail in English) is patron of bees and beekeeping. Deer are also special to her and both decorate her sacred site at Ballyvourney, Cork. The pilgrim crosses mark the entrance to her enclosure, beyond which can be seen the Sheela-na-gig figure from her churchyard.
There are two wellsprings and an ancient tomb mound at the site which has a definite pre-Christian feel about it. Perhaps a bee goddess who became a saint in later years? (Acrylic on canvas. 12in x 24in). Copyright Nic Phillips 2017.
St Gobnait
Nic Phillips Sacred Art 