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Grim the Black Cross, runic inscribed

Archaeology

This fragment of a cross slab was found in the churchyard wall in the 1800s.  It is kept at Kirk Michael church.


Both faces show the head of a wheel-headed cross, decorated with looped bands gripped by rings. The arms of the cross are linked by a plain bordered ring. One face shows a cockerel, a symbol of the Resurrection, and a winged figure, perhaps an angel, above the left and right arms respectively. A figure in the centre of the cross possibly represents Christ in ascension, with a 'nimbus' or halo above his head and his arms outstretched in blessing. The other face shows a serpent above the left arm of the cross and a male figure and a bird above the right.


Along one edge the latter part of an inscription in runes survives, which has been translated as, '...of Grim the Black'.


See also Manx Cross 129.

Kirk Michael Church

Connections

Location

  • St Michael’s Church, Kirk Michael

Book Chapters

  • Parish: Michael
  • Sheading: Michael
  • Grid Ref: SC3174890828

Sources

  • Isle of Man Heritage Environment Record

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