This is a fragment of the shaft of a cross. Despite the fact that most of the complete cross is missing, this fragment of shaft is highly decorated in high relief and rich with information. It might date to the end of 15th century.
The fragment stands in the private garden of a house, but nobody was home. I asked some locals and they told me I was allowed to step in and have a look. So in I went.
The fragment of shaft has been mounted on a concrete base and is 96 centimetres tall, about 34 centimetres wide and 21 centimetres thick.
On all sides the upper halves are decorated with foliage motifs.
On the south (170°) side the lower part depicts a crucifixion. The two figures at the feet of the crucifixion should be with the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. John.
On the north side there is a Pietà, that is the Blessed Virgin holding the Child on her lap. Other crosses that depict a similar scene are Balrath and Cruicetown, both in county Meath, like this one.
On the east side of the fragment is St. Lawrence, holding a gridiron, the tool of his martyrdom.
The west side depicts St. Matthew who appears as he holds a staff with both hands, with a satchel across his right shoulder.
I was really amazed by this little treasure!
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