CASTLEDERMOT  CELTIC CROSS

(CLICK CROSS TO RETURN)

This exquisite solid silver Celtic cross is a miniature reproduction of a freestanding cross in Ireland. The Castledermot Celtic cross is 1 ¾” high by 1” wide. It has a polished back, stamped sterling.  There is a hidden loop on the back that accommodates a fairly large chain.

CASTLEDERMOT CROSS, West Face, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland


This granite cross is found in the Church of Ireland churchyard in the town of Castledermot, Ireland. The church goes back to the 12th and 13th centuries; beside the church stands a Round Tower. The 10 foot tall cross was probably erected in the 9th century at the Dirert Diamada monastery founded in 812. Monks are thought to have used the scenes like a picture book to teach about Christ. The scenes from bottom upwards:
1. Three figures, Emmaus.
2. Temptation of St. Anthony.
3. Daniel in the Lion's Den.
Center: Eve handing the apple to Adam in the Garden of Eden bringing about the Fall of Man.
Left of Center: David the Psalmist playing his harp.
Right of Center: Sacrifice of Isaac.
Top Panel: Fall of Simon Magus.