The Tablet-woven Braids from the Vestments of St. Cuthbert at Durham
Grace M. Crowfoot
The braids which form the subject of this study were found with a stole and maniple on body St. Cuthbert when tomb was opened in 1827. vestments are embroidered coloured silks gold thread: figures prophets, those saints. Both have an inscription ends, names donor, Ælflæda, ‘pious Bishop Fridestan’ for whom they worked. Fridestan became Winchester A.D. 905 second wife Edward Elder, son Alfred Great, died 916, so that gift must been made between these dates. It is further probable identical recorded as having presented to shrine (then at Chester-le-Street) by King Athelstan, stepson Queen 934. had 931, circumstance, together close connexion king's family Winchester, supports story.
The Antiquaries Journal