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Ampney St Peter - The Sheela na gig
A prominent and well displayed Sheela na gig which has, at some time, been defaced in the genital area. It is believed that this was once displayed on an exterior wall.
The history and purpose of Sheela na gig is subject to controversy. It is worth noting that early Christian belief revered as its principal mystery the Birth of Christ from mortal women, it was only later with the romanisation of the church that the emphasis shifted to the crucifixion and ascension. It may well be that Sheela na gig represent the remnants of the creed carried by early missionaries.