Joalf's Cross Slab (Manx Cross 132)
This large rectangular slab previously stood in the village before being placed in the entrance to the churchyard in 1907 and finally inside the church itself in 1963, accounting for its worn condition. Each face of this slab is carved with a wheel-headed cross, the arms connected by a plain circular ring.
On one face, the head, arms and long cross shaft are decorated with a plait-of-eight. The plain ring joining the limbs of the cross is supported above and below by triquetra knots. The shaft is bordered with a double bead, terminating at top and bottom in spirals or 'volutes'. The lower spirals form a pedestal supporting the cross shaft. Above these are two panels depicting figures: to the left two stags are attacked by hounds, while to the right are a man on horseback and a riderless horse. Above these panels are two circular motifs formed by four back-to-back triquetras, which in turn support small crosses. Below the shaft are two interlaced dragons, and, separated by a band of step-pattern, a hound attacking a stag.
On the other face the head of the cross is decorated with looped bands and rings. The bands are carried down the shaft to form, with two others, a double-twist interlaced with diamond-shaped rings. Two of these strands escape from the foot of the shaft to create a pedestal formed from spiralling volutes. Above the head of the cross the fragmentary remains of a hound pursue a stag, while above them a bird is chased by a larger one. To one side of the cross shaft a rider on horseback followed by a spare horse. Below them the faint figure of a man reaches towards the cross, while below are the faint remains of another. To the right of the cross two animals, apparently a bull and ram, are shown head to head, and below them a bird and a horse.
One edge bears a twist and ring interlace motif, while the other is taken up with a runic inscription. Despite the presence of male figures and the depiction of pursuits usually dominated by men, this stone memorialises a woman, for this inscription translates as "Joalf, son of Thorolf the Red, raised this cross in memory of Fritha, his mother". Above the inscription can be seen a carving of a warrior, a spear in his right hand and a small round shield in his left, perhaps representing Joalf himself.
This cross was probably carved around AD950-975.
Connections
Book Chapters
- Parish: Michael
- Sheading: Michael
- Grid Ref: SC3181090850
Sources
- Isle of Man Heritage Environment Record