AN ancient carved stone discovered during excavations for an extension at Wycliffe’s St Mary’s Church has features never previously seen by experts.
The stone is the base of a large carved cross which dates back to the ninth or tenth century. But a crucifix etched into it has never been seen on similar burial crosses from the same period.
In a report Prof Jane Hawkes, an expert in the history of art from York University, said: “The motif of the outline of a cross is without precedence in Anglo-Saxon sculpture, of Anglian or Viking-age date, and is of considerable symbolic significance.”
Also, of interest is a round symbol above the crucifix, which the expert described as curious and not easily explained.
Prof Hawkes said: “The circular ring might have been intended to recall the symbol of the sun or moon, motifs that commonly accompanied the cross in images of the crucifixion from an early date in Christian art, and survive in Anglo-Saxon art.”
Church warden Keith Miller said the stone will remain in the church along with other rare engravings, including two cross shafts and three hogsback pieces.
He added: “We will have to find a way of displaying it best.”
He is also celebrating the near-completion of the extension which includes a new disabled access, toilet facilities and a kitchenette.
The walls have been constructed with stone similar to the church and the roof is reclaimed slate.
Mr Miller said: “It looks absolutely perfect and the stone work is beautiful. It has taken a very long time and there have been lots of delays, but it has been worth it.
“We hope in the fullness of time to have some stained-glass from a top stained-glass producer, to match the medieval stained-glass we have and the Victorian stained-glass, which was produced by Clayton & Bell, who had a warrant from Queen Victoria.”
He added that the new facilities would be extremely useful for the many concerts which are held at the church, as well as weddings, funerals and other events.
It is hoped it will be open in time for the next concert on August 31 when Jacob Heringman and his wife, Susanna Pell, will be playing a selection of Renaissance music.
Mr Miller said: “The church should be the ideal setting for such music, and I hope the quality of refreshments will be as high as at our last concert in April, which was a sell-out. The price of tickets will again be £15, to include refreshments.”
To book tickets email ksh miller32@gmail.com.
