Anglo-Saxon stone cross-head

This fragment of stone sculpture comes from the top of a tall, free-standing cross. Runes inscribed on the central panel read pray for Cynibalth, Cuthbert, revealing that it was a form of Christian memorial. This side is finely carved with know motifs, interlace and an animal head, while deep holes in the cross-head show that it may have been set with metalwork, glass or even jewels. The other side is plainer, suggesting that the cross was intended to be viewed mainly from the front.