Late Saxon Cross, All Saints - Brixworth, Northamptonshire
Posted by: 
SMacB
N 52° 20.038 W 000° 54.260
30U E 642787 N 5800251
Lower portion of a late Saxon Cross situated near the pulpit. It was found in the former Vicarage garden in 1897 and it appears to have once been used as a door jamb.
Waymark Code: WMKAFE
Location: East Midlands, United Kingdom
Date Posted: 03/09/2014
Views: 2
"This portion of the shaft of a late Saxon cross was found in the Vicarage garden, north west of the house in 1897. It is of red sandstone. It appears to have been re-utilised in a wall, perhaps on a door-jamb. The socket on the top belongs to the period of re-use.
The tapering shaft, which was originally much longer, now measures in height 2' 8½", base 12½" by 11½" and top 11½" by 8½". The break occurs across the lower part of the decorated panel, which shows an animal with a slight body and long legs, rather like a greyhound, facing to the left. Both hind legs and the left fore-leg are on the ground. The right fore-leg is raised horizontally. The tail bends down between the hind legs, forming a curve under the belly and another curve in the opposite direction between the fore-legs, and then passing upwards. The head has been destroyed.
The design, which is typical of the period, shows Scandanavian influence. It is simply ornamental, without symbolic intention. It bears some resemblance to the Gosforth cross in Cumbria.
A large number of shallow burials, which show every indication of pre-conquest date were found under the house and particularly the north west area of the garden. The cross may therefore have stood originally somewhere near the place it was found."
SOURCE - Plaque near artifact
Approximate Age of Artefact: Not listed
Relevant Website: Not listed
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