Object: Rothesay Stone

Date: Early Medieval

Description: A slab of sandstone which is carved on the front with a cross which merges into a key pattern at the bottom. The carving is much worn and damaged but careful examination shows beasts heads, a figure holding a fish and perhaps a man being attacked by a beast. The sides are beautifully carved and have not suffered as much damage, so it easy to see what an impressive stone it once was. The photo has been created by photogrammetry which brings out the detail.

Origin: Found in Rothesay Castle in 1816. It was being used in two pieces at the foot of a stair in the NW tower. It was displayed at the castle for a number of years before coming to the Museum. It was so extensively damaged that there was a danger that the carved surface would detach. In the 1990s preservation work was undertaken to consolidate the surface. The stone is now displayed flat rather than upright to prevent further damage.