Medieval Archaeology 45

A range of evidence can be used to reveal the context of a significant number of early-medieval inscribed and sculptured stones in Wales. This can throw valuable light on their functions and on the origins and development of church sites. It is suggested that the stones whilst primarily commemorative were also symbols of landowning placed by secular elites. Sixth-century stones act as grave markers and are associated with local churches and cemeteries, whilst those of the ninth to eleventh centuries are clustered in and around major monasteries and regional churches.

A watching brief and excavations in the 1950s and 1960s took place on a kiln site near Falkirk. The large assemblage of redware pottery is described and discussed by vessel form and a link suggested between the kiln site and a nearby preceptory of the Knights Templar. The context of the site within the Scottish medieval pottery tradition is also discussed. Includes:

Reigate Stone was one of the most important building stones used in the Middle Ages, despite which, it has not been extensively studied. This essay looks at the geology, documented history and transportation of this material.

Description of two pieces of metalwork argued to be evidence for the vitality of an indigenous Celtic decorative tradition in Insular art.

Suggests a model for the development of the Rows at Chester and argues that the pattern is the result of trying to build over Roman remains.