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Kirk Michael Cross Slab (Manx Cross 123)

Archaeology

This flake from the face of a slab was found in a garden adjoining the churchyard to the north in 1911. It shows part of the interlace decorating the shaft of a cross; in the panel to the right is a robed female figure with long braided hair, holding in her hand a four-pronged spear or staff. Below her is a tethered horse, on whose back is either a saddle or a pack.


It is tempting to interpret the woman as Hyndla, the wise-woman, and the horse as Grani bearing Sigurd's treasure, but both may have meanings unassociated with Norse mythology.


The edge carries an inscription, but only the broken tops of a few runes now remain, which have been translated as, '...in memory of Mu...'

Kirk Michael Churchyard

Connections

Book Chapters

  • Parish: Michael
  • Sheading: Michael
  • Grid Ref: SC3176090830

Sources

  • Isle of Man Heritage Environment Record
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