Cross slab (fragment)

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This fragment of a cross slab is one of a number of sculptured stones found at the parish church of Tarbat at Portmahomack in Ross-shire. The site is almost certainly that of a Pictish monastery. The carving was made between 775 and 850.

The fragment has a central boss, surrounded by a wreath decorated with a key pattern. Around this, and now broken off, are scrolls with raised dots.

The eastern Ross-shire area is rich in Pictish carvings, showing a wealthy church able to commission a variety of carvings. Many of the stones blend Pictish symbols with Christian crosses and scenes, in carvings which relate to manuscript and metalwork.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-043-485-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.IB 131
• Date: Between 775 and 850
  
• Material: Stone; showing circular raised band of key patterns surrounding central boss
  Cross slab / fragment
  
• Dimensions: 370 mm H x 60 mm L x 390 mm W
  
• What: Cross slab / fragment
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Ross and Cromarty, Tarbat
  
• Event:
• Description: Fragment of cross slab with wreath and central boss, from Tarbat, Ross and Cromarty
  
• References:
  • Allen, J. R. & Anderson, J. The early Christian monuments of Scotland. Edinburgh: Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 1903, vol. 2, p 91. 
• Translations:
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