216 
Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy. 
each reaching nearly to the depth of an inch, and being three-quarters 
of an inch wide, so that its outline somewhat resembles that of the 
body of a violin. These lateral depressions are margined by elevated 
bands on the flattened sides, that measure close to one-half inch across, 
and increase the thickness of the stone at these points to nearly 
li inch. It is perforated from side to side by a narrow cylindrical 
aperture, drilled with remarkable accuracy, too small to hold a wooden 
handle, though well adapted for attaching the stone to a thong of 
hide or of cord. 
It is a model of skilful manipulation, and in beauty of outline not 
surpassed, if equalled, by any of our polished stone antiquities. The 
labour demanded to produce such symmetrical smooth surfaces, on hard 
basaltic stone, must have been great, and its execution would occupy 
much time. If we consider it an implement of warfare, intended to 
be thrown by the hand, its accurate balance, and the proportions of its 
parts, would render it a formidable missile, and it would be difficult 
to imagine any form of weapon better calculated to do mischief in a 
combat, if hurled by a well-trained hand. 
The character of the rock itself selected for its manufacture is 
noteworthy. Its basis is a dark dolerite, studded with minute stars 
