Cross (fragment)

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This fragment of a sandstone cross shaft is one of several sculptured stones found at Abernethy in Perthshire. It was carved between 950 and 1000.

The cross shaft is carved on the front. This side has a crucifixion scene above, and three draped heads below.

Elaborate Christian sculptures served several purposes. Some may have been memorials, while others made statements about political or ecclesiastical power. They could mark boundaries, define areas of sanctuary, or be a focus for religious practice.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-104-162-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.IB 255
• Date: 950 - 1000
  Between 950 and 1000
  
• Material: Sandstone; sculptured on front, above crucifixion scene, below three draped heads, on back animal interlace much defaced
  Cross shaft / portion
  
• Dimensions: 20.00" H x 14.50" W
  
• What: Cross shaft / portion
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Perthshire, Abernethy
  
• Event:
• Description: Part of a sandstone cross shaft sculptured on front with a crucifixion scene and three draped heads, from Abernethy, Perthshire, 950 - 1000
  
• References:
  • Allen, J. R. & Anderson, J. The early Christian monuments of Scotland. Edinburgh: Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 1903, vol. 2, pp 310-1. 
• Translations:
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