From Tarbat, Portmahomack, Ross-Shire

Cross slab (fragment)

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:	0098: 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
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.
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