Cross-slab in Scattery Island

A fragment of a cross-slab used in the construction of a drystone wall adjacent to St Senan’s Bed (CL067-024002-) on Scattery Island was found and reported by Dr. Eve Campbell. Incised decoration on the fragment (L 0.32m; Wth 0.22m; T 3.5m) appears to be part of a wheeled cross formed of parallel lines (5m apart) over a panel of geometric ornamentation. Only portion of the geometric panel is on the remaining fragment. The wall on which it was found is shown on the 25-inch OS map, but not on the earlier 6-inch map. A cross-slab (CL067-024017-) with very different decoration lies recumbent c. 2-3m to the N of this wall. The following images have been uploaded: CL067-024028-_01.jpg View of fragment (photo: Eve Campbell) CL067-024028-_02.pdf Drawing of fragment (drawing: Eve Campbell) CL067-024028-_03.jpg Cross-slab fragment at Visitor Centre CL067-024028-_04.jpg Cross-slab fragment at Visitor Centre Revised by: Mary Tunney Date of revision: 21 September 2022

Date likely to the early medieval period, possibly 7th to 10th century AD, given its association with St Senan, an early Christian saint. The incised decoration may represent Christian cross symbolism, reflecting the site's historical role as a monastic settlement.