Cross (fragment)

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This fragment of a sandstone cross was found at Gattonside in Melrose. It is carved in a style of decoration typical of 8th century Northumbrian sculpture, and is evidence of the spread of Christianity from this region.

The picture shows the side of the cross fragment. It was carved with a diagonal key pattern, now quite worn.

After the introduction of Christianity, architectural features, shrines and especially crosses were carved from stone. Many, like this example, are decorated with patterns which are also found on metalwork and in manuscripts.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-002-099-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.IB 52
• Date: 700 - 800
  Between 700 and 800
  
• Material: Sandstone, interlaced work
  Cross shaft / fragment
  
• Dimensions: 7" x 9"
  
• What: Cross shaft / fragment
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Roxburghshire, Melrose, Gattonside
  
• Event:
• Description: Sandstone fragment of a cross shaft, with interlaced work, from Gattonside, Melrose, 700 - 800
  
• References:
  • Allen, J. R. & Anderson, J. The early Christian monuments of Scotland. Edinburgh: Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 1903, vol. 2, pp 432-3. 
• Translations:
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