Doorway to Devotion: Recovering the Christian Nature of the Gosforth Cross
Amanda Doviak
The carved figural program of the tenth-century Gosforth Cross (Cumbria) has long been considered to depict Norse mythological episodes, leaving potential Christian iconographic import its Crucifixion carving underexplored. scheme is analyzed here using earlier exegetical texts and sculptural precedents explain function frame surrounding Christ, by demonstrating how icons were viewed understood in Anglo-Saxon England. frame, signifying iconic nature image, was intended elicit viewer’s compunction, contemplation and, subsequently, prayer, facilitating a collapse time space that assimilates historical event Crucifixion, present Parousia. Further, arrangement invokes theological concerns associated with veneration cross, which expressed contemporary liturgical ceremonies remained relevant within Anglo-Scandinavian context monument. In turn, understanding underpinning this image enable symbolic significances be suggested for remainder carvings on cross-shaft, selected intention communicating, through multivalent frames reference, significance Christ’s as catalyst Second Coming.
Religions