From Tarbat, Portmahomack, Ross-Shire

Cross slab (fragments)

These fragments of cross slabs are two 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 carvings were made between 775 and 850.

The circular fragment has a raised ring decorated with interlace and a key-pattern, surrounding seven small bosses. The triangular fragment preserves the edge of the stone and one small boss.

The eastern Ross-shire area is rich in Pictish carvings, showing a wealthy church able to commission a variety of carvings. Over 20 fragments of carved stone slabs have been found at Tarbat/Portmahomack. They show distinctive and complex styles of design.

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Online ID:	000-190-004-093-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 283
Date:	Between 775 and 850
Material:	Sandstone, greenish; circular; with a raised ring decorated with interlace and key pattern surrounding seven small bosses Sandstone, greenish; piece from edge; one small boss
Dimensions:	150 mm H x 50 mm L x 220 mm W 290 mm H x 60 mm L x 310 mm W
What:	Cross slab / fragment Cross slab / fragment
Subject:
Who:
Where:	Scotland, Ross and Cromarty, Tarbat Scotland, Ross and Cromarty, Tarbat
Event:
Description:	Fragment of cross slab with one small boss, from Tarbat, Ross and Cromarty Fragment of cross slab with wreath enclosing seven bosses, 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, pp 90-1.
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