BGCP_15

‘Byzantine’ cross

Site co-ordinates: 37.80/14.60

3D model here

This graveslab, aligned W–E, is 1.58 m long and up to 0.40 m wide. It has a slightly squared end at the W, but sharply pointed at the E. It has a generally smooth and even surface, with very faint score marks probably from dressing. Some slight flaking, and natural marks, and a thin longitudinal crack in E half.

The slab bears a finely carved, long-shafted ‘Byzantine’ cross, with expanded arms and foot, and a spike or tenon extending 0.06 m below the foot. It measures 0.55 m long and 0.35 m wide. It is carved in negative relief with a sharp rectangular profile. The presence of the spike suggests this is a depiction of a processional cross, the spike fitting into the top of a shaft when being carried, and into a stand on the altar. It is therefore more than just a religious symbol, but the depiction of a liturgical object, perhaps indicating the grave of an ecclesiastic.

For further information on sources see BGCP Bibliographic References after the last entry.