In 2014, in Dumfries (Scotland), Derek McLennan, using a metal detector, found a cross in the middle of a plowed field. Then, with the help of excavations, the Galloway treasure was discovered. It is one of the most exclusive and richest collections of Viking objects ever found in Ireland and Britain.
Finally, now, with the help of a delicate and painstaking restoration. We can see the decorated cross. Restorers worked for years to get rid of the encrusted dirt on the cross. They chose for such delicate work a carved porcupine quill, sharp enough to remove the layers but not so strong as to cause damage.
What could not be seen before is now visible.
The cross is decorated with an intricate decoration of gold leaf with four arms that depict the symbols of the four evangelists who wrote the Gospel of the New Testament: Matthew (man), Mark (lion), Luke (cow) and John (eagle). ). Experts say that the details of the jewelry were the work of a jeweler with outstanding skill and artistry.
Dr Martin, chief specialist in early medieval and Viking collections, said: “It's just amazing. There is really no parallel. This is partly because of the time period it comes from. We imagine that many ecclesiastical treasures were looted from monasteries - this is what the historical record of the Viking Age describes to us. This is one of the survivors. The quality of execution is simply incredible. It's a real privilege to see it 1,000 years later."
Anglo-Saxon silver cross before and after the complex process of removing 1000 years of dirt.
“It looks like something that would be ordered at the highest levels of society. First sons were usually kings and lords, second sons became high- ranking clerics. He probably comes from one of these aristocratic families."
An equally unique spiral chain was also found with the cross. This indicates that the jewelry was probably worn. “You can almost imagine someone taking it off their neck and wrapping a chain around it to bury it in the ground. It has such a personal touch," added Dr. Martin.
The "Viking-age Treasure" exhibition, where you can see a unique treasure with your own eyes, will be held at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh from February to May.
