Cross

The head of a 10th century sandstone high cross (H 0.64m; Wth 0.62m; T 0.20m) was excavated from the graveyard of the Church of Ireland church at Colp (ME021-012004-) by K. Campbell, and it is now displayed in the porch of St Mary's Church of Ireland church at Julianstown. There is a roll-moulding on the edge of the cross-shaft and arms, with a narrower moulding inside it. There is a mortise-hole on top. At the centre of the head is a slightly domed boss, surrounded by two circular ribs. The arms are decorated with interlace. The shaft bears an irregular angular interlace. On the W face the centre is occupied by a crucified Christ clad in a short garment. Flanking Him are Stephaton and Longinus. Beneath each of Christ's feet there is a spiral, out of which two serpents unroll themselves (Harbison, P. 1992, 1, 59-60). See attached image. Compiled by: Geraldine Stout Date of amended upload: 22 December, 2014