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On the western facing side a Celtic wheel cross is carved in relief along with some more indistinct knotwork and figures. This is quite a simple design for a cross and may represent a transitional period between the simpler Class I stones and the elaborate crosses seen on, for instance, the Glamis Pictish stone 2, Aberlemno 2 and the Nigg Pictish stone. The two figures either side of the cross shaft could be interpreted as angels holding prayer books with bowed heads.
My reason for including this stone is the carvings on the eastern facing side. At the very top is the cresent-and-V-rod motif which is found on seventy five percent of stones with two or more symbols. Directly below this is the next most common motif, the double-disc-and-Z-rod, which is found in 40% of pairings. Below these are some so-called horsemen that are commonly found on Class II stones and may represent a hunting scene or be a declaration of power.
These stones are incredibly enigmatic. A number of theories have been forwarded to explain their existence. Theories explain them as a means of recording marriages between tribes, as boundary markers, grave stones or even as monuments declaring the conversion of Pictish warriors to christianity. Their true function(s) will probably never be known, but this does not detract from the interest that they hold. Some are so beautiful that they command respect for the ancestral hands that originally carved them into the rough stone.
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O.S.G.R.:
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NO 522 556 (54). |
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Location:
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Aberlemno village. 5½ miles SW of Brechin, 9 miles NE of Forfar. |
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Directions:
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From Forfar, take the B9134 to Brechin. Turn right for the church & park by the village hall. There is a class II stone in the churchyard. Two more symbol stones can be seen on the right hand verge further along the road, just past the church. |