Cross slab

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This sandstone cross slab was found in the churchyard at Scoonie in Fife. It was probably carved in the 8th century. It shows a fusion of native and Christian elements, with both secular and religious scenes depicted.

This side has the so-called Pictish beast symbol at the top. Below is a hunting scene, with the hunters on horseback and with a dog pursuing a stag. To the right is an ogham inscription 'EDDARRNONN', the meaning of which is unclear.

In the early Historic period three alphabets were current: Latin, brought by the Christian church; ogham, originally developed by the Irish and used by both Scots and Picts; and runes brought by the Scandinavians. Most people, however, were illiterate.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-190-001-000-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  X.IB 110
• Date: 8th century
  
• Material: Stone; showing men on horseback, dogs, deer, the so-called Elephant symbol and Ogham inscription
  Stone
  
• Dimensions: 1500 mm H x 120 mm L x 760 mm W
  
• What: Stone
  
• Subject:
• Who:
• Where: Scotland, Fife, Scoonie
  
• Event:
• Description: Stone showing hunters on horseback, hounds and deer, from Scoonie, Fife
  
• References:
  • Allen, J. R. & Anderson, J. The early Christian monuments of Scotland. Edinburgh: Society of Antiquaries of Scotland, 1903, vol. 2, pp 347. 
• Translations:
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